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Why Can't I Leave My Abusive Partner?
The Psychological Impact of Abuse: Why It's Hard to Leave
Reading time : 1 minute,
Discovery Chepe Id-415-SOC
Published in
07-27-2024
It is important to note that no woman "chooses" to be in a violent situation. There are multiple factors that can cause a woman to feel trapped in an abusive relationship, and it is essential to understand them to provide appropriate support.
Trapped: The Invisible Chains of an Abusive Relationship
Leaving a violent relationship is an extremely difficult and complex decision, and the courage it takes to do so should not be underestimated. There are multiple factors that make it difficult to escape from a cycle of domestic violence, both on a personal and social level:
1-Fear: Fear is an omnipresent feeling in victims of violence. Fear of retaliation, fear of losing children, fear of being alone, fear of the unknown, etc.
2-Emotional dependence: Violence is usually accompanied by emotional manipulation, which generates emotional dependence on the aggressor. The victim may believe that she cannot live without him or that she will not find anyone else.
3-Blame: Many victims blame themselves for the violence, believing that they did something to provoke it.
4-Shame: The shame of having experienced such a situation and the fear of social judgment can prevent victims from seeking help.
5-Lack of economic resources: Economic dependence on the aggressor is another factor that makes it difficult to leave, since the victim may not have the necessary resources to support herself and her children.
6-Threats: Abusers often threaten their victims with harm to them or their loved ones, which keeps them terrified and makes it difficult for them to leave.
7-Stigmatization: Society often blames victims of violence, questioning why they do not leave sooner or why they return to their attackers.
8-Lack of information: Many people do not know the signs of gender violence and do not know how to help victims.
9-Fear of reporting: The fear of retaliation, of reliving the trauma and of not being believed deters many victims from reporting their aggressors.
10 Lack of resources: Shelters for battered women are often overcrowded and there are not enough support programs for victims. It is important to remember that no person deserves to live with violence and that leaving a violent relationship is possible. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, there are resources available to help you. You are not alone.
Where to look for help?
· Emergency telephone lines: In many countries there are free and confidential telephone lines where you can receive guidance and support.
· Non-governmental organizations: Many organizations are dedicated to helping victims of gender violence, offering counseling services, legal support and shelter.
· Health centers: Health professionals can provide you with medical and psychological care, in addition to informing you about your rights and available options.
· Security forces: In case of emergency, you can call the police. If you need help, don't hesitate to seek it.
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