Child abuse, spouse abuse, and other forms of intrafamilial violence continue to threaten the health of thousands of American families. At least 2.2 million people are victims of violent injury each year. The United States ranks first among industrialized nations in violent death rates. Violent and abusive behavior is an important cause of injury-related death and long-term disability; homicide and suicide account for over one-third of the more than 145,000 injury deaths that occur in the United States annually. Objectives in dealing with the problem of violent and abusive behavior focus on homicide and assaultive violence, domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault, suicide, and firearm injury. The following needs are identified: cooperation and integration across public health, health care, mental health, criminal justice, social service, education, and other relevant sectors; improved data on morbidity and disability associated with violence; effective services for victims that address physical and psychosocial consequences of violent and abusive behavior; efforts to prevent alcohol and illicit drug use, since they are frequently associated with suicidal behavior and interpersonal violence; professional education and awareness in identifying and treating victims of violence; and recognition of cultural differences in values and behavioral norms across the many ethic and racial groups in the United States. Specific needs related to shelter space for battered women, comprehensive violence prevention programs, personnel needs, surveillance and data needs, and research needs are identified. 1 reference