Introduction: Animal Abuse and Family Violence

SUMMARY The present collection of articles attempts to shrink the literature gap that currently exists in the areas of animal abuse and its relation to family violence. This introductory chapter outlines the historical issues of animal cruelty, based specifically on an interview with Frank Ascione, a pioneer in exploring the issue of abuse of animals and the reasons for its occurrence. Definitions of animal maltreatment, ramifications of its commission, and future directions for research and practice are discussed. A detailed outline for the present volume is also provided, painting a clear picture of the need for this and future books on the issues.