Why victims dont report domestic violence

The batterer frequently threatens to take the children away from the victim if the victim leaves, and the victim believes the batterer. The victim believes law enforcement and judicial authorities in some jurisdictions may not take domestic violence seriously, hence the victim believes the batterer is often not punished or removed from the victim.

Often the batterer is violent only with the victim and frequently concludes there is something wrong with the victim. The victim may have no idea that services are available and may feel trapped. The battering takes place during a relatively short period of time. Afterwards the batterer may be quite gentle, apologetic, loving, and may promise never to beat the victim again. The victim may be convinced that this beating will be the last. Obsessiveness about Partner or Family — A batterer who is obsessive about their partner, who either idolizes and feels that they cannot live without their partner or believes they are entitled to their partner no matter what because they are their spouse, is more likely to be life-endangering.

Centrality of the Battered Woman — If the loss of the battered victim represents or precipitates a total loss of hope for a positive future, a batterer may choose to kill.

When it is a viable option, it is best for victims to do what they can to escape their abusers. However, this is not the case in all situations.

Abusers repeatedly go to extremes to prevent the victim from leaving. In fact, leaving an abuser is the most dangerous time for a victim of domestic violence.

One study found in interviews with men who have killed their wives that either threats of separation by their partner or actual separations were most often the precipitating events that lead to the murder. A victim's reasons for staying with their abusers are extremely complex and, in most cases, are based on the reality that their abuser will follow through with the threats they have used to keep them trapped: the abuser will hurt or kill them, they will hurt or kill the kids, they will win custody of the children, they will harm or kill pets or others, they will ruin their victim financially -- the list goes on.

The victim in violent relationships knows their abuser best and fully knows the extent to which they will go to make sure they have and can maintain control over the victim. The victim literally may not be able to safely escape or protect those they love.

In addition to individual obstacles victims face when escaping violent relationships, society in general presents barriers. These include:. Safety Exit! Why Do Victims Stay? Home I need help — information and support on domestic abuse What is domestic abuse? Isolation Domestic abuse often relies on isolating the victim: the perpetrator works to weaken her connections with family and friends, making it extremely difficult to seek support.

Shame, embarrassment or denial Perpetrators are often well respected or liked in their communities because they are charming and manipulative. Useful articles and videos. The Telegraph: "Coercive control: How can you tell whether your partner is emotionally abusive? What is domestic abuse? Get support and information. Find your local service. Share this. I need help What is domestic abuse?

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