rtant because research indicates that strong community sanctions against violence in the home are effective in keeping abuse levels low (Levinson, 1989).
Counts, Brown and Campbell (1991) discuss several methods (other than shelters) which communities can use to combat domestic violence. These methods include:
(1) Making sure that elected officials and local media are clear that nonviolence is a priority in their area.
(2) Neighbors keeping an eye out and working together to address problems in other families.
(3) Working with advocate groups to make sure that police deal with assault within marriage as swiftly, surely, and severely as an assault between strangers.
(4) Educating community members that if they are to see some form of domestic violence, they should interfere by being willing to contact appropriate authorities.
(5) Having community members take direct measures to reduce their vulnerability to violence in general, e.g. improving the physical security of their homes and t
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