1.0　Introduction

1.0　Introduction

The first step in researching domestic violence may be to examine labels or ways of defining the condition,because defining something means attempting to recognise its essential nature (Pryke &Thomas,1998).Such efforts to 'define' give meaning to any social phenomenon and predispose us to think about the issue in a particular way.They,in fact,may shape our behaviour in relation to the issue or problem concerned.As Spender (1985) points out,naming is the process by which people attempt to impose order and structure upon the constant change and chaos of human existence.To name something is the first and important step in the cyclical process of awareness leading to clearer definitions and understanding.

As far as researching domestic violence is concerned,having knowledge and understanding of what domestic violence is about and the effect it has on those involved is crucial for practitioners to be able to work on the issue.As Hester et al.(2000:14) suggest:

'Without knowledge about the dynamics of domestic violence the actions of those concerned can be difficult to understand,and the behaviour of perpetrators and victims may appear contradictory or unreasonable'．

Accordingly,definitions of domestic violence in both the UK and China will be introduced first.Psychological violence,one form of domestic violence,will also be explored and defined with particular attention.This is because psychological violence is central to my research.Through examining such definitions,we will see that there are similarities and differences between the two countries.Seeing how domestic violence is defined in different countries can reveal how different cultures will influence research on domestic violence.For example,some of the questions raised about definitions are:

　• Who is included,and

　• What behaviours are included?