This book is intended as a general introduction to the problems of battered women. The format for part 1 consists of the presentation of facts about wife beating, i.e., who are victims, characteristics of batterers, the environment in which family violence exists, and services for battered women. These facts are illustrated by the presentation, on alternating pages, of a fictional wife battering situation. Part 2 of the booklet provides advice for the victim before, during, and after the attack and presents information on the role of the police, going to court, criminal and civil charges, and restraining orders. The decision about whether a battered woman should stay with the man or end the relationship is also discussed. Part 3 of the booklet includes a suggested reading list and a resource list of shelters and other family violence programs and resources in New Mexico. Although the information about legal matters and resources for battered women is geographically specific to New Mexico, the booklet provides a useful basic introduction to anyone interested in learning more about the problem of wife battering. (JAC)