This report reviews studies investigating both the characteristics of abusive families and the efficacy of treatment interventions for abusive parents. The investigation emphasizes variables such as the individual characteristics of the parent, individual characteristics of the child, and family patterns that are related to child abuse. Particular attention is given to Patterson's theory of coercive family processes and its usefulness in understanding the nature and functioning of abusive families. The report presents results of a review of the empirical literataure as revealing three main approaches to the treatment of abusive parents: social learning, ecological, and supportive/discussion group. The study discusses the efficacy of the social learning interventions as being the most strongly supported. The study notes that ecological treatment programs have not undergone evaluation as thoroughly as the social learning interventions, but the limited research available indicates that this approach holds some promise. In contrast, the research presents evidence which indicates that the supportive/discussion group approach is not effective as a primary intervention for abusive parents. (Author/TE)