What causes the cycle of abuse?

The cycle begins with some stress (ex: job, money or bills). The stress causes the abuser to feel powerless. The abuser chooses to act out toward a spouse or partner through name-calling, insults and accusations. As the tension builds, victims try to calm the abusers and try to guess ways to meet all their needs.

What is the cycle of violence in a relationship?

The cycle of violence is a repeating pattern often seen in abusive relationships. It involves three different stages that continuously repeat until the victim is able to leave the relationship. What often makes the situation even worse is that as the cycle continues the violence often escalates and worsens.