Feminism, particularly radical feminism, has done more to help those harmed by domestic violence than any other movement. It was essential in alerting policymakers and practitioners to the physical and emotional abuse that occurs within families. Radical feminism in particular has produced the most energetic and persistent movement that has presented policymakers with evidence of the widespread abuse of women in the home. Much of this evidence came from the experiences of women who sought protection and help from crisis shelters for domestic violence operated by feminists. This meant, however, that much of the framing of the nature of and response to domestic violence was derived from the experiences of those victims who sought help in shelters. Criminologists and victimologists assumed a different role from feminist activists in the field of domestic violence. One of their most important roles is to provide rigorous scientific data that helps policymakers and practitioners to characterize the various manifestations of domestic violence, its differing impacts on victims with varying profiles, and how to respond appropriately according to the characteristics of particular cases. Such research is best pursued without ideological presuppositions that have guided the work of radical feminists in addressing domestic violence. Research shows that power and control are still key factors in understanding domestic abuse, as is emphasized by radical feminists; however, these are not the only factors involved in domestic violence. Objective research demands that full consideration be given to other variables that bear upon the causes and responses to domestic violence. 5 notes and 144 references