Theories explaining the causes and consequences of family violence (FV) have evolved over time. While early FV theories focused almost exclusively on the characteristics of individual users and targets of FV, contemporary theories also address the role of social structures in FV. This chapter provides an overview and critique of the most relevant and comprehensive theories applied to FV research and clinical practice. This chapter begins with the biopsychosocial model, tracing its evolution and application to FV causes and effects. This model integrates the psychosocial determinants of health, including the impact of adverse childhood experiences, and provides the foundation for trauma-informed care. The next model, the social-ecological model (SEM), provides a framework with four levels of environmental systems, from individual to societal, that influence life experiences. Emphasis is placed on FV risk factors at each system level and the synergistic interactions among these environmental systems. An overview of the social determinants of health (SDOH) theory follows, focusing on the underlying mechanisms of health inequities, including structural factors and contexts defining individuals’ socioeconomic position. This theory postulates that social hierarchies cause unequal exposure to FV and its outcomes. Next, several equity frameworks are presented. Intersectionality theory posits that multiple social identities associated with marginalisation interact to create social and health inequities, thereby increasing vulnerability to FV. Health equity frameworks are described, including the health equity framework, which incorporates aspects of SEM, SDOH and intersectionality and the injury equity framework. Finally, a comprehensive health equity and multisector approach to preventing intimate partner violence is detailed.