Cycle Of Leaving Research Paper

Words: 695
Pages: 3

Statistics say, one in three women—and one in four men—have been in abusive relationships, and one in five women and one in seven men have faced severe physical violence (Shelter For Help In Emergency). When we hear about someone who is in an unhealthy or abusive relationship we often ask the question “Why don’t you just leave?” It can be difficult for many people to understand why a person would stay in an abusive relationship. Although leaving would be the most logical act, many factors such as the cycle of abuse, emotional forces and situational/financial reasons that prevent him/her from doing so. Most abusers follow a pattern that keeps the victim trapped. There are three phases in the cycle of domestic violence: (1) Tension-building Phase, (2) Acute or Crisis Phase, and (3) Calm or Honeymoon Phase (Hidden …show more content…
Generally, the victim has little to none job skills, and the abuser has complete control of all the family finances. The victim is usually afraid to inquire about the finances due to fear of violence or verbal abuse, making it hard to find alternate housing and outside resources. Additionally, religion and culture pressures dictate a victim from leaving. Predominantly in religion and cultures leaving your spouse are frowned upon, and the victim fears he or she will bring shame on them. Likewise, if the abuser and the victim have children together, the victim may feel pressured to raise his or her children in a two-parent home. Leaving can sometimes be dangerous, and the victim feels it’s safer to stay. Usually the victim fears the abuser will retaliate if he or she leaves. Statistics say 70 percent of domestic violence injuries and murders happen after the victim has left (Ph. D. Malkin). For instance, an abuser might threaten to take children, stalk, or even kill the