Watch Dr Sylvia Gearing on YouTube discuss how domestic violence begins in romantic relationships - click here.
With a recent study by the CDC finding that one in four women have been severely beaten by a romantic partner, many Americans are wondering how relationship violence develops.
Malignant Trend: We already knew that about 70% to 80% of distressed couples could resort to occasional pushing and shoving when there is chronic tension. But this survey speaks to a more malignant trend in relationships. Relationship violence usually starts suddenly with a slap or a shove. There is an initial shock but the intensity and the frequency progressively and steadily escalate.
Violence Becomes the Norm: The study found that woman were being severely beaten—punched hard, kicked, violently thrown, choked, beaten, slammed against a hard surface by her partner, and some were even shot or stabbed. Her denial kicks in and she pretends that this is either her fault or a normal part of life.
Vicious Cycle of Family Violence: Many women of the current generations have witnessed domestic violence in their parents’ relationships. When they grow up with violence, they are twice as likely to accept or normalize violence in their own relationships. The worst part is that they continue the trend by teaching their own sons and daughters that violence is normal and acceptable.
Overwhelming Trauma: The emotional damage is exponentially worse when you are traumatized at the hands of your partner. The person who is supposed to protect and honor you is now your tormentor. The trauma can be paralyzing and can disable women from taking steps to protect themselves or their children.
Check back tomorrow to find out why certain men move to violence against their partners and what signs you can watch out for in your own relationships.
Source:
“1 in 4 US women victims of severe violence” by Mike Stobbe, Associated Press
The Work of Gavin De Becker
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