The earliest literature contained the ideas of a few psychotherapists who viewed woman battering as a rare phenomenon that involved masochistic women and sadistic men. This research led to the myth of psychopathology as the mediating factor. Research after the birth of the battered women's movement has led to changes in the attitudes of medical practitioners toward battered women patients and law enforcement's reaction to battering victims and their abusers. Research has also revealed important facts about the handling of abusers and their victims by the courts and about violent relationships that result in homicide. The myth that children living in violent households are not harmed has been discredited. Yet, many battered women continue to face serious difficulties when they attempt to divorce their abusers and obtain custody of their children. Other myths have been exposed by researchers; once ideas gain popular acceptance, however, they tend to continue to exert influence. Nonetheless, positive changes have occurred in the entire spectrum of medical, legal, and social services with which battered women interface. The review of research findings highlights current needs and suggests future directions. 109 references