Court Diversion: An Alternative for Spousal Abuse Cases

Perhaps the husband should still be permitted to exercise the right to moderate chastisement, in cases of great emergencies, and to use salutory restraints in every case of misbehavior without SUbjecting himself to vexations, prosecutions, resulting in the discredit and shame of all parties. Bradley v. State, Walker 156, 1824 Criminological research clearly reveals that violence is not an uncommon characteristic of intrafamilial relationships. The constant company of the spouse, the stress caused by the closeness, and a sense of insecurity with the relationship provide fertile ground for violent reaction. Cultural approval and acceptance of violence toward one's spouse has been documented. A recent survey conducted by the National Commission on the Causes and Prevention of Violence suggests that one of every five husbands approves of slapping a wife's face. (McEvoy, 1970