It examines statistics, highlights areas of controversy, and offers practical advice -- through discussions, program profiles, and appendixes -- for individuals engaged in both prevention and victim services. Starting with prevention strategies for self- protection and self-defense issues, chapters also address sexual assault/rape, date and acquaintance rape, domestic violence, workplace violence, and teen dating aggression. Legislative trends and contemporary issues, such as dealing with multicultural populations, are referenced as appropriate. Some themes with special relevance for prevention are developed. One such theme is that the true extent of rape by strangers, acquaintances, and intimates is unknown, as is the number of women battered by boyfriends or husbands. Other themes are that public education is critical and effective prevention strategies and services for victims depend on multidisciplinary partnerships. The book also develops the theme that to prevent future violence, parents and communities must start teaching young children nonviolent ways of resolving conflict and raising awareness of the negative effects of gender stereotyping. Further, because the media strongly influence culture, values, and standards in today's society, there should be a thorough examination of violence and gender stereotyping in both news and entertainment, along with research on how such patterns affect individuals in relationships and solving conflicts. 92-item bibliography and appended discussion of serial rapists and listings of sources of help