Book excerpt: This thorough exploration of the major types of family violence details the range of abusive behaviours perpetrated within family systems. Case vignettes effectively illustrate these events, and the victims' experiences and perceptions of the abuse.Chapters delineate: the reasons why various types of abuse continue to occur; how different types of violent behaviour may be treated; and suggestions for prevention. In addition, the author provides definitions of terms, summaries, valuable references and additional suggested readings.