Heavy Hands: An Introduction to the Crimes of Domestic Violence (Prentice Hall Contemporary Justice Series) Book

The first book to explore--in one volume--the causes, consequences, and prevalence of domestic violence and the positive law enforcement response. Using a socio-legal approach--with emphasis on the practical criminal justice perspective--it offers a contemporary view of the criminal justice experience with diverse forms of domestic violence and populations: violence against women; dating violence; sibling abuse; rape and incest; child and elder abuse and neglect; male battering; lesbian and gay violence; specific issues affecting African Americans and American Indians. Balanced and thorough, it exposes the myths about both victims and offenders, showing how women and men, the elderly and children, heterosexuals and homosexuals all can be perpetrators and victims as well. Explores in depth questions such as: What is domestic violence? Why does it happen and what are the consequences? Who are the offenders and who are the victims? What legislation exists relative to family violence? How does the court and law enforcement respond? How to you get help? What resources are available? For professionals in criminal justice, law enforcement, social work, counseling, education, etc., and for anyone wishing to be better, more thoroughly informed on this important issue.Read More