Researchers are just now studying the complex details of battering by males. Several TV movies, such as The Burning Bed, have depicted this situation. We know even less about husband abuse. Some women probably have the same fears, needs, and weaknesses as battering men and are in a situation where they can physically abuse their partner. Most psychologists believe women are much less abusive than men, but the data isn't clear on this point.
Spouse abuse occurs in all social classes and with independent as well as dependent women.
Society and strangers, even the police, seldom interfere with family fights but society pays the bills in the emergency rooms. Abuse should not happen but no treatment is a sure cure, probably we don't even have a good cure. About half of batterers will not get treatment and half of those that do, drop out. In most cases, it is wise to report the abuse to the police. Recent research confirms the benefits of pressing charges in these cases, however.