Dr. Kathryn Ambeau distinguishes between Battered Woman Syndrome (BWS) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in cases of intimate partner violence (IPV). While BWS is a helpful concept, PTSD offers a clinically recognized, precise diagnosis that strengthens the credibility of forensic evaluations in court. Ambeau highlights the importance of using accurate diagnostic terms, as shown in the Louisiana case of State v. Catina Curley, where expert testimony on IPV and PTSD helped explain the defendant's actions and the psychological impact of prolonged abuse.