As one of the most under reported crimes in the United States, domestic violence has been identified as the single major cause of injury to American women, exceeding rapes, muggings, and even auto accidents combined. (Surgeon General’s Office) The law defines domestic violence as the use of force, directed toward a spouse or former spouse, a cohabitant or former cohabitant, or a person with whom the abuser has had a dating or engagement relationship. Thus, a domestic violence batterer may include any family member, including siblings, grandparents, or a roommate.

