Domestic violence is an epidemic that rages throughout our society. De
spite its overwhelming incidence and prevalence, this abuse goes unrec
ognized and unaddressed in the majority of health care settings. Nonet
heless, battered women expect health care providers to initiate discus
ions about abuse. Improved awareness through education at all levels a
nd protocols will help interrupt the cycle of intergenerational learne
d violence. Without intervention, domestic violence is perpetuated and
escalates. (C) 1995 by W.B. Saunders Company