There are, nonetheless, broad estimates of the extent of Domestic Violence, suggesting that the behaviour is widespread, almost to the point of being a normal, expected behaviour pattern in many homes. Between one in three and one in ten families may be affected. Wife Battering Is A Predominantly Lower Class Phenomenon Once again, a lack of accurate statistics cannot reflect the distribution of this problem. Workers may assess that violence is a problem for working class people because women in families on lower incomes are more likely to come to the notice of helping agencies. Middle class women are less likely to seek assistance because they fear personal embarrassment and the possible damage to their husband's careers if the violence was disclosed.
Research indicates that there are no socio-economic barriers to Domestic Violence.
In Some Ethnic Groups Than Others Studies have shown that patterns of Domestic Violence do not vary between different subcultures because Spouse Abuse can manifest itself in any society where there is an unequal power imbalance between men and women. Even though the consumption of alcohol is a precipitating factor to triggering violent incidents in the home, it is not the major cause of Domestic Violence. Alcohol 'frees' some men up to act in certain ways by disinhibiting them from displaying aggression. Being under the influence' at the time of the assault may provide the perpetrator with what he feels to be an excuse for his behaviour however, drunkenness is never an excuse for violence and many men who drink are not violent to their partners. Drunk drivers are not seen as unable to help their behaviour, and their drunkenness is not seen as an excuse for the damage they cause.