The analysis is based on a review of research and interviews with hundreds of women who have survived violence perpetrated by males. The discussion focuses on the ways in which society encourages violence against women, with emphasis on the judicial, law enforcement, and legal responses to violence against women. Recommendations focus on institutional change, the criminal justice system, new legislation and policies, the health care system, child protection agencies, religion, the schools, the shelter network, research, and individual action. Specific actions recommended include training staff of community institutions on the causes and consequences of violence against women and children and effective intervention, arrest and prosecution of perpetrators of domestic assault, the ability to obtain restraining orders rapidly and easily, and increased punishment of recidivists. Additional recommended actions include training of both civil and criminal judges on battering and child abuse and increased Federal and State funding for paralegal training programs for lay advocates, legal services for battered women, and paid attorneys and lay advocates for battered women's shelters or centers. Chapter reference notes and index