The Cycle of Violence
 

THE CYCLE OF VIOLENCE
Sometimes helping people become discouraged when the battered person continues to stay in a life threatening relationship. It is important to understand all the dynamics involved... fear of losing their children, fear of violence against other loved ones, low self-esteem, tradition or socialization, economic reasons, poor problem-solving skills, emotional investments and societal expectations. It also helps to have an understanding of the Cycle of Violence:

Phase 1 - TENSION BUILDING

This phase can last a long period of time, but the length decreases as the cycle recurs. There is tension between the couple. The abuser is frustrated, increasingly irritable, jealous and coercive. The victim tries to anticipate the abuser's whim and stay out of the way.

Phase 2 - ACUTE BATTERING INCIDENT

Battering often begins with verbal abuse and in time becomes more severe and life threatening. The tension becomes unbearable and is violently discharged. The precipitating factor is usually an outside event and thus unpredictable. The abuser may minimize the violence but the victim remembers everything.

Phase 3 - SEDUCTION

The abuser is apologetic, loving and kind. Terrified of abandonment, the abuser will play on the victim's guilt or sympathy. The abuser may promise to seek help or threaten suicide if the partner leaves. Out of responsibility or hope for change, the abuser is given "one more chance". The cycle of violence repeats.



STOP THE CYCLE