There is No Cycle of Violence

The notion of domestic violence as a cycle is somewhat outdated. It may describe some relationships where there's a pattern or trigger for bad behavior. But for most, the challenge of leaving a dangerous relationship is not realistic to do during a "calm" period or "honeymoon" phase. This is because of the many tactics used by an abuser to control and maintain power over the other. At play may be money, children, medical needs, a career, education, religious obligations, and any combination of these and more.

The power and control wheel, and variations similar to this one, are used to help define and depict domestic abuse in relationships. At the center of the issues in a troubled relationship is control and power over the other person. Whether an incident happens only one time or many times daily, take the situation seriously.

Displayed with permission and credit to Domestic Abuse Intervention Project.