Explores domestic violence as a social problem within the United States from historical, cultural, political, legal, and law enforcement perspectives. Provides an overview of theories, definitions and causes of, and interventions for domestic violence involving spousal, elder and child abuse along with teen dating violence. Examines the dynamics and effects of domestic violence. Addresses research issues and contemporary domestic violence policy. Prerequisites: None.

Victimology, the criminal justice system, techniques of crisis intervention and management, and the importance of a multicultural and global perspective. Includes violent crimes, sexual assault, family violence, post-traumatic stress disorder, the role of substance abuse, developing effective coping skills of victims and responders, appropriate community resources, and the cultural responsiveness of the justice system.