Domestic violence in Japan

Traditionally domestic violence in Japan referred to children's physical an d emotional violence against their parents. However,in recent years, the ge neral public's awareness of and actions toward other types of domestic viol ence, especially violence against women and children, has increased Followi ng a brief description of filial violence and elderly abuse, both spousal a buse and child abuse are discussed in terms of their prevalence and cultura l and historical backgrounds. The article concludes with current and future challenges in the intervention of violence, particularly against women and children, in the Japanese family.