fessional training in the area of spousal abuse (Worcester, 1992, p. 284).
Despite this progress though, wife battering continues to be a growing problem. The reasons for this are complex.
Part of it has to do with biology. Men still tend to have the advantage of physique and strength (Aita, 1993, p. 55).
Another component of wife battering is societal. Even in the modern world, cultural factors may still act to perpetuate the inequalities between men and women. This may be particularly true in families with extremely fundamental religious beliefs that engender harsh patriarchal attitudes and expectations.
Furthermore, many institutions in society may support violence against women by creating barriers to effective intervention. For example, one study in Britain found that 44% of battered women who sought medical attention were sent home unsupported (Schechter & Gary, 1988, p. 244 247). In addition, the strong emphasis that the Christian church places on marriage may also lead to wife battering. Clergy generally encourage wom
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