The Cycle of Violence

Violence repeats in a cycle and intensifies with each round. The cycle has four phases:

1. Tension building: Jealousy, control and communication problems escalate; the woman tries to calm the situation, often blaming herself.
2. The violent incident: The accumulated tension erupts as physical, sexual or psychological violence.
3. Reconciliation: The abuser apologizes, cries, brings gifts, promises it will never happen again. This keeps hope alive and makes leaving harder.
4. Calm / honeymoon phase: The relationship seems to improve; but tension builds again and the cycle repeats more severely.

The cycle does not stop on its own without outside intervention. Getting support is vital.