Why Did They Stay?

Voices Leading Change:

Survivors at the Heart of Prevention Apr 11, 2022

Survivors often hold themselves responsible for the abuse, a phenomenon known as victim self-blaming. This is reinforced by the primary aggressor, who consistently blames them. As a result, they remain in the relationship for an extended period, attempting to modify their behavior to stop the abuse. When they eventually recognize the experience as abusive, they deserve validation, even if they stayed despite knowing something was wrong.

"Victim Blaming in Abuse and Relationships."

https://www.youtube.com/watch

References:

1. When Victims Blame Themselves for Domestic Violence https://www.abuseandrelationships.org

2. Four Reasons Why Victims Blame Themselves for Domestic Violence https://www.vanessaprietolaw.com

3. Victims Blaming in Abusive Relationships

https://www.abuseandrelationships.org.