NCJ Number
115195
Date Published
1988
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This pamphlet instructs women patients about the nature of spouse abuse, the dynamics of the abusive relationship, and alternative actions for protecting oneself and one's children from continued abuse.
Abstract
Abuse is 'forceful, controlling behavior that coerces a woman to do what the abuser wants without regard to her rights, body, or health.' Abuse often begins or increases during pregnancy due to increased emotional stress for both parents. More than half of the men who abuse their female partners also abuse their children. Others threaten such abuse. A male abuser often was raised in a violent family, has low self-esteem, often abuses alcohol/drugs, and may be excessively jealous of his partner's relationships with others. Victims tend to have low self-esteem, fear being alone, blame themselves for the abuse, and believe they cannot survive economically without the abuser. Abuse typically occurs in a cycle, and if victims are to break the cycle, they must tell someone about the abuse and take steps to protect themselves and their children from further abuse. Victims should also have a prearranged exit plan that involves preparation to leave the home at any time. If the abuse cycle is to be terminated over the long term, the abuser must either change or the victim must leave the home.