Background and Hypotheses: Domestic violence is common and can lead to severe physical and psychological problems. Thus, we have investigated the frequency of occurrence, forms and risk factors of domestic violence against female patients on a crisis intervention ward.

Methods: 115 women were screened with the "screening spouse violence" (SPG) and the "index of spouse abuse" (ISA).

Results: The life time prevalence concerning spouse violence was 70 %. Out of 74 women who were currently living in a relationship 28 (38 %) were victims of violence in the last 12 months prior to their admission. Women who experienced violence had a significantly lower level of education.

Conclusion: Screening for domestic violence in female patients in the field of crisis intervention and psychiatry should become a standard of "good clinical practice".