The handbook is organized according to five parts. The first part deals with safety planning, specifically preparing for future violence, safety during violent incidents, safety when preparing to leave an abusive situation, documenting evidence, safety and substance abuse, and keeping a diary of abuse and harassment. The second part is designed to improve understanding of domestic violence. Facts about domestic violence are presented, frequently asked questions about domestic violence are answered, and the dynamics of abuse and the impact of domestic violence on victims are addressed. The third part explores the impact of domestic violence on children. The fourth part covers help available to domestic violence victims, including friends, family, community, employers, and the medical community. The fifth part identifies resources for domestic violence victims, such as hotlines, shelters, criminal justice system resources, general legal services, and books and information. References, footnotes, and figures