The Cycle of Violence
The Cycle of Violence is a recurring
behavioral pattern where the offender swings between affectionate, remorseful,
and calm behavior to periods of tension that grows into physical, sexual
or emotional violence.
DENIAL WORKS IN EACH STAGE OF THE
CYCLE. THEREFORE THE CYCLE KEEPS GOING. ONLY BY BREAKING THROUGH THIS
DENIAL CAN THE CYCLE BE BROKEN.
Denial during tension
building stage
She denies its happening, excuses it as a result of outside stress (work,
etc.), blames herself for his behavior, or denies that the abuse will
worsen. He denies by blaming the tension on her, work, traffic, anything,
and by getting drunk denies his responsibility for his actions.
Denial during
explosion stage
She denies her injuries, “They’re only minor,” “I
bruise easily,” or “it didn’t require police or medical
help”. She blames it on drinking, “He didn’t know what
he was doing”; does not label it rape because it was her husband.
Denial during
“honeymoon” or “remorseful” stage
She minimizes injuries, “It could have been worse,” believes
it will not happen again, believes he is the man of her dreams and believes
his promises. He also believes it will not happen again.
He also believes it will not happen
again.
Back to Top
Domestic
Violence
