While abusive parents appear to be much like non-abusive parents, some characteristics of the most abusive parents can be described. These abusive parents exhibit traits which include: (1) isolation from close family and friends; (2) unrealistic expectations; (3) a childhood marked by abuse, lack of love, and inconsistent caregiving; (4) negative perceptions of their children; (5) feelings of unworthiness of love; (6) lack of skilled parenting, yet episodes of affection; and (7) fear of helping agencies because these agencies may take their children away from them. Group counseling with peer support can be useful therapy. Participants are encouraged to socialize and contact each other as a method of support network building. This therapy works for volunteer participants. A professional leader should discuss the relationship between parent behavior and child behavior. The leader and paraprofessional facilitator should be parents. Physical abuse is worked on first and parents are taught to think about the best ways to handle difficult situations with children. The leader can then teach age appropriate behavior in children. Group members should complete each stage before beginning a new one. (ABL)