The Cycle Of Violence

The predictable cycle of violence in an abusive relationship has three distinct phases: (Click here to view the Cycle of Volence document) The Honeymoon Phase - (after a violent episode the abuser is apologetic and remorseful for what has happened. Or so they would have one believe. During this phase the abuser lavishes gifts and apologies for the behaviors. The tears flow and the abuser seems honestly sorry for what transpired. It is important to note that this is an attempt to draw the victim back into the relationship. The Tension Building Phase - (during this phase the “I am so sorry” is gone. This is the walking on eggshells time. The yelling, screaming and emotional battering returns. The Acting Out (or violence) - (this is the actual physical violence phase) After this assault, the cycle returns to the Honeymoon phase and continues. This cycle continues throughout the abusive relationship. Studies have shown that this cycle increases in speed, and as it does the violence becomes more and more severe. As this cycle progresses in speed and frequency, the honeymoon phase will disappear altogether. Domestic Violence occurs in all walks of life, bridging all socioeconomic classes, races, religions, geographic locations, age, sex, education level, and upbringing. Anyone can be in a violent relationship, and no one is immune. Abusive individuals batter as a means of power and control, to manipulate, intimidate and rule their intimate partner. Men who abuse their partners come from all races, religions, socioeconomic classes, areas of the world, educational levels and occupations.