Domestic Abuse, Homicide and Gender

"Domestic Abuse, Homicide and Gender makes a powerful case that raising the profile of partner abuse by criminalizing coercive control is the single best way to prevent partner homicides and ameliorate the frustrations with the current approach shared by

victims and practitioners. In straightforward prose, Jane Monckton Smith, Amanda Williams and Frank Mullane combine a fearless argument for reform, with original research, a lucid summary and solid critique of current interventions, numerous case examples and an array of tools that justice, health and social work professionals can immediately apply to improve their practice. In a powerful chapter, Frank Mullane draws on his extensive experience with surviving families of partner homicide victims to outline lessons we cannot afford to ignore." - Evan Stark, Rutgers University, USA

"This is a powerful and sensitive account of the devastating impact of domestic abuse and homicide, written by leading experts in the field. The authors aim to align the victim's perspective with the professional perspective and suggest an alternative model for understanding victims and perpetrators based upon status and strategy. The book provides a rich picture of the experiences of victims, their families, and first responders, and dispels many of the myths and misunderstandings of domestic abuse. No-one who reads this book would ever ask 'why does she not leave?'. The authors develop a nuanced theoretical understanding of

domestic abuse and extend their analysis to specific policy and practice recommendations. This book should be read by everyone with an interest in domestic abuse and will appeal widely to practitioners, policy-makers and academics alike." - Rachel Condry, University of Oxford, UK