I just heard about a new book (controversial, of course) called the Feminine Mistake. It talks about women giving up careers for raising a family and then women not being finacially independent later in life.

Money is a complex issue, but I also believe that it is not enough of a reason to stay in a bad relationship. If finances are the only reason for staying in this relationship, perhaps digging in deep to find a way to be self-sufficient would be a good first step for this woman. I am sure there are sources out there to help her.