Understanding Why Abused Victims Stay
People who have never been abused often wonder why a person wouldn’t just leave. There are many reasons why someone stays in an abusive relationship. Each victim will have their own list of reasons as to why they remain in a violent relationship. Some of the most common reasons that keep a victim in an abusive relationship are:
- Low self esteem
- Economic deprivation
- Witnessing violence as a child
- Keep the family tighter for the sake of the children
- Belief in cultural, family or religious values
- Fear of what could happen if they left
- Believing abuse is normal
- Embarrassment
- Love – hoping an abuser will change
- Nowhere to go
Domestic violence is a serious crime! If you know someone that is in an unhealthy or abusive relationship, the most important thing you can do is be supportive. Please understand that leaving an unhealthy or abusive relationship is never easy.
WAYS YOU CAN HELP:
- Listen
- Express your concern
- Don’t give up
- Tell the victim that it is NOT their fault
- Offer options like calling a domestic violence crisis hotline for more information
If you or someone you know is in an unhealthy or abusive relationship, please call 888-554-2501 to reach our 24-hour crisis hotline!
