he syndrome by many women to evade culpability. The syndrome itself is based on a sound theory and backed by scientific research. Psychologists, and other social scientists, have brought aid to women who truly suffer from domestic violence in America, but they have also been criticized for supporting women who have not been abused. There is dyer need for a closer examination of the negative aspects that have arisen out of the battered women's syndrome. Some critics hold that battered women's syndrome is closely related to victimology and may cause people to undermine the principles that the criminal law is based upon. Although this assumption is well put, it would not affect the majority of battered women's cases in America. Critics have even blamed the present state of battered women's syndrome on the women who wrongfully use the theory to support their defenses. They believe that the women who are suffering from battered women's syndrome are loosing support, because of those who are not justified in using the concept (138). Other critics of BWS have singled out certain psychologists and social scientists. Dr. Walker, the renowned psychologist mentioned above, has been heavily criticized for representing nearly any woman in need of expert testimony. Dr. Walker stated, "It is clear from the rest of her story that Paul had been battering her by ignoring her and by working late" (qtd. on 147). Statements like these undermine the BWS theory and give people false notions to what the syndrome is actually about. These critics also include battered women advocates who are unhappy with the way battered women are being portrayed. Battered woman advocate Patti Seeger stated, "What I don't like about BWS is that it is tied to 'learned helplessness.' I disagree totally with this theory. Rather than being helpless, battered women adopt survival skills" (qtd. on 138). This quote, although surprising, shows the frustration and tension that...
