A major contributing problem in our culture is the traditon of the patriarchal family. Most family victims are female; most violent aggressors are male. A family approach can support the power of the aggressor and facilitate victimization of other family members. Examining and servicing the family as a unit can diffuse the characteristics of the victims and aggressors and the powers and vulnerabilities of individual family members. There are varying degrees of violence in different families. Physical or sexual abuse is seldom the only method of abuse used in the family. Health concerns resulting from violence include physical, emotional, and mental illness or disability, and chemical abuse. Complex economic issues are also associated with family violence. All the formal intervention methods are essential in identifying and eliminating violence in the family. Guidelines on resources emphasize housing, volunteer services, and caregiving services. Chapter footnotes and a 10-page bibliography are included.