The three-phase cycle of family violence is identified: the tension-building phase, characterized by the increasing stress both husband and wife experience; the explosion, which may be precipitated by anything, including a late dinner or a misplaced comb; and the 'honeymoon,' when the man apologizes for what he has done and promises never to repeat his behavior. Characteristics of wife abusers are examined: most feel deeply dissatisfied with themselves, were victims of violence or witnessed violence between their parents, are dependent upon the wives they abuse, have poor communication skills, and abuse alcohol or drugs. A biblical perspective on wife abuse is presented: Genesis is viewed as the true account of the devastating effects of evil on the world, and wife abuse as a distortion of the marriage relationship. The book argues that the commonly held evangelical view of marital roles constitutes part of the problem and that mindless, fear-induced wifely submission does not represent a biblical model of marriage. Suggestions for the battered wife and for those who wish to help her are included. Eighty-eight references are included.