Encyclopedia of Interpersonal Violence

"The first attempt at a comprehensive work on interpersonal violence, this encyclopedia should be considered the resource to consult for those interested in various aspects of this social problem. Written by expert contributors who examine the occurrence and prevalence of all forms of interpersonal violence, the 500 easy-to-read, jargon-free entries provide definitions of key concepts, theoretical principles, relevant legislation, and public policies on the topic. The work will prove useful for students at all academic levels searching for information on the topic and will serve as a primer to those interested in pursuing a career in related disciplines. Practitioners and clinicians in a wide range of fields will also find it a helpful guide to statistics, theories, policies, and programs aimed at dealing with interpersonal violence. Renzetti is a recognized expert in the field and author of the best-selling Women, Men, and Society. Edleson is coeditor of the Sage book series on violence against women and author of numerous articles and books on domestic violence, group work, and program evaluation. BOTTOM LINE Providing accurate, research-supported information needed to educate the public about different forms of interpersonal violence, this distinctive work is a great reference point to Oxford University's "Interpersonal Violence" series by the same two editors. Recommended for public, high school, and academic libraries."
—Luis J. Gonzalez, Hunter Coll. Libs., New York

“Interpersonal violence encompasses a wide range of human behaviors. Assault, bullying, child abuse, discrimination, domestic violence, genocide, kidnapping, murder, neglect, rape, self-inflicted injuries, stalking, terrorism and torture may all be defined as violence between individuals. The scope of this encyclopedia covers almost all forms of violence, except armed conflict between nations. Coverage includes both the victims and the perpetrators of violence, with the emphasis upon research-supported studies. More than 500 expert written essays are aimed at students and professionals in social work, criminal justice, education, health care, psychology and counseling, in addition to policy makers in public health and government. Many entries focus on those susceptible to violence, particularly to women, children, the elderly, immigrants, the poor and the homeless. Family and sexual violence are given extra attention. However, there is near equal coverage of those who commit violence. This applies to descriptions of support groups and intervention programs as well as discussions of associated disorders, syndromes and research organizations. Other articles define types of violence; describes its incidence in the United States; and outlines efforts made to combat the problem. Forms or emotional and cultural coercion also are featured. Theoretical approaches examine biochemical factors, socialization issues and subcultures associated with violence. The research methods and instruments for studying both victims and abusers are explained. Also examined are the legislative and responded of our society to violence, from gun control to prosecutorial practices. Supplemental materials include extensive lists of contact information for state, national and international agencies, research organizations, support groups and recovery programs. A substantial statistical section provides data on American crimes from 2002-2006. The is somewhat limited for a scholarly work, but each article provides substantial suggestions for further research. From assisted suicide and battered women to human trafficking and sex offenders, this guide provides an excellent overview of the state research on interpersonal violence. This set is highly recommended for academic libraries.”
—John R. M. Lawrence

“Students and professionals in the fields of substance abuse prevention and treatment are the primary audience for this new encyclopedia. Essays on models and theories of addiction and prevention outline key concepts like abstinence, sobriety, or codependency. Examinations of the neurological affects of specific classes of drugs detail the biological basis of addiction. Articles on disorders, disease and injected drug use explore related health issues. Many legal, criminal and social questions are discussed in essays on public policy. However, the bulk of the more than 350 articles address issues that professionals face in the course treating clients. Thus, considerable attention is given to the methods of screening and diagnosing addiction. From aversive therapy to twelve-step programs, many entries explore the effectiveness of various treatment options. Social support groups, barriers to recovery and relapse prevention are also emphasized. The scope also includes behavioral addictions such as eating disorders, gambling and compulsive shopping. Preparation for the profession is heavily featured in numerous articles on standards, training, ethics and professional organizations. An emphasis on expectations and current practice make this set an excellent resource for those preparing for work in these fields. Therefore, this title is highly appropriate for academic libraries.”
—John R. M. Lawrence