Moving Toward Universal Definitions and...

In this chapter, we review the utility of universal definitions and the assessment of family problems and family violence from a public health perspective. First, we document the clinical implications and public health costs of intimate partner violence, child abuse, intimate partner relationship distress, and parent–child relational problems. Second, the current status of these problems in major diagnostic systems and recommendations for improvements in universal assessment are detailed. Third, brief measures that can be used to assess family problems and family violence across a wide range of clinical and surveillance settings are discussed. Finally, implications for treatment are provided.