There are genuine reasons why victims of domestic violence do not leave their spouses. Maybe you have a friend who is going through domestic violence in Washington, or you are yourself.
A complex situation
The reasons why someone would stay with an abusive partner vary. And some of these reasons are complex. These are some of the reasons why someone would not leave an abusive relationship:
- There are vicious cycles in relationships.
- The is the fear of destitution.
- There is the fear of extreme violence.
All marriages and relationships go through difficult periods. This is why a victim can become attached to hope in even bleak circumstances. A victim may wait for a spouse to go to therapy. Or there can be financial problems, which can be viewed as the source of the abuser’s temper. And the victim may wait for prosperous times.
The fear of destitution lurks, especially among mothers. Often, mothers are the main caregivers and are also dependent on the spouse financially. She may have not have another place to go, and she may not have the support of law enforcement.
Unfortunately, in many cases, the threat of separation only precipitates violent acts. This is when abusive spouses take action. And the harmful incidents are also immediate. Also, the violence does not just occur to partners. The victim’s loved ones, whether siblings or pets, can become victims as well. This is why an abused spouse would decide to stay in a harmful relationship.
Getting through it
It is not easy to leave an abusive relationship. Perhaps, you are in this situation. Or maybe a friend of yours is a victim. Fortunately, there are resources available. Now is the time to seek help.
