Sobsey (1994) has proposed an ecological model for understanding the complex nature of the abuse of persons with disabilities. The model includes the environmental and cultural factors that contribute to the vulnerability of potential victims, the characteristics of potential victims that increase their vulnerability to abuse, and the characteristics of their potential offenders. The most serious vulnerability to abuse may result from the sociocultural context of disability, which continues to be one in which persons with disabilities suffer from pervasive stigma and marginalization. Also, persons with physical disabilities, cognitive disabilities, or both may be reluctant to identify and report abuse because of their dependence on others, especially if the abuser is their care provider. Like a woman without disabilities, women with disabilities may experience abuse from a romantic intimate partner who has an intense attachment to them. Characteristics of these batterers include the need for control, low self-esteem, exposure to abusive models, and poor impulse control. Among the barriers to ending or leaving abusive relationships for disabled women is the lack of accessible emergency shelter services and the fear of having to enter institutional care. Suggestions are offered for future research and action. 48 references