THE CYCLE OF ABUSE

STAGE 1
TENSION BUILDING

The abuser may become aggressive by slamming doors and threatening violence. This creates an atmosphere of fear and anxiety. The victim may feel scared and try to please the abuser, but the tension will increase.

STAGE 2
INCIDENT

The abuser may hit, kick, choke or physically harm the victim. The abuser may destroy the victim’s possessions or become sexually or emotionally abusive. The battering can last from a few minutes to a few hours.

STAGE 3
HONEYMOON

While continuing to exert power and control, the abuser becomes loving, caring and apologetic. The abuser may give gifts and/or promise not to abuse again. This stage does not last long before the cycle of violence occurs again.

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