Two characteristics- Walker Cycle of Violence Theory
1. They are able to predict the next episode of severe battering will be.

Cycle tension->build tension->battering->battering ease down->contrician (forgiving and loving). And it continues.

 

2. Why don’t these women leave?
>feel completely trapped and unable to leave
>paralyzed with fear

Most of these women eventually develop a severe state of depression, which slows down her ability to escape the battering (Elizabeth Stanko, 88).  Stanko also explains, "the lack of self - confidence often act as a trap which prevents women from leaving a violent home" (57). Many women are threatened with their family; they avoid leaving for the safety of their children. This fear could prevent any functional individual from escaping a violent hand. What we need to realize is that it is just a threat and once we leave we have taken away the power from his hands. Please be attentive to the cycle and be aware of a violent relationship whether it is yours or not. Mr. Small would get angry, start arguing with his partner and when he could not listen to her side he would hit her. After a bit of crying, he would try to massage the swollen body parts and apologize. Sometimes he would cook her dinner and say, “you know I lose my cool but I can’t live without you.” There is nothing more pretentious than “I can’t live without you” Ladies please do not fall for it; it is just an act until he gets angry again. Be aware and stay safe.