Why Do Victims Stay? Understanding the Psychology of Domestic Abuse
Every year, millions of Americans face domestic violence — and one of the most common questions people ask is: “Why don’t they just leave?” Understanding why victims stay in abusive relationships requires more than common sense; it requires empathy, knowledge of psychological manipulation, and awareness of systemic barriers. The Cycle of Abuse: More Than Just Violence Abusive relationships often follow a predictable pattern: tension , abuse , reconciliation , and calm . This emotional rollercoaster can trap victims, making them believe the abuse is temporary or even their fault. Abusers frequently isolate their victims from support networks, control their finances, and use gaslighting to distort reality — making escape feel impossible. Psychological Traps That Keep Victims Bound 1. Fear and Intimidation Victims often fear physical retaliation, especially if the abuser has previously threatened to harm them or their loved ones. 2. Low Self-Esteem and Learned Helplessnes...
