Family violence is a widespread problem; research has shown multiple factors are associated with family violence. Types of family violence include spouse abuse; elder abuse and neglect; child abuse and neglect; parent abuse; and sibling abuse. There are three types of spouse abuse: physical abuse, sexual violence, and psychological/emotional abuse. These often occur in combination, and although either partner may be the victim, most victims are women. Among the many factors that may contribute to the occurrence of spouse abuse are learned behavior, trial-and-error learning, and substance abuse. Abused and neglected elderly persons are among the most isolated victims of family violence. They are maltreated by their spouses, adult children, or other relatives. There are four types of elder abuse: physical, psychological/emotional, material exploitation, and violation of rights. Causes of elder abuse range from seemingly deliberate abuse of older persons by spouses and adult children, to unintentional cases of neglect related to the frailty of the older person, to the pressures that can result from caregiving. There are four types of child maltreatment: physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, and mental injury. Although any of the types of child maltreatment may be found alone, one often finds them occurring in combination. Parent and sibling abuse; the effects of family violence; and federal, state, and local response to family violence are discussed. (LLL)