Within the last decade, research has demonstrated intrafamilial violence as a major health and social problem and women remain at high risk for abuse by their spouses. Unfortunately, there is little to guide clinicians in their work with battered women since treatment models and clinical theory specific to battering have not been fully developed. The purpose of this study was to explore the shelter experiences of battered women.

Qualitative data were collected from interviews of seven battered women and participant observation in ten group counseling sessions at a family violence shelter located in the Southeast. The participant observation involved an additional 49 women. During in-depth interviews, the women elaborated on their difficulties in seeking assistance from various social agencies. Research findings were validated through participant observation in the counseling sessions.

The interviews were analyzed using grounded theory methodology. The central core concept which emerged from the data was "Giving Up". Supporting concepts were Helplessness and Fear of the Unknown. Within the supporting concept of Helplessness were processes of dealing with social agencies, police, and health care providers. The processes involved in Fear of the Unknown were self-blaming and accessing systems. Study findings revealed that the participants found it easier to give up and return to the abusive situation than to seek alternatives.