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Why Do They Abuse?
Nothing justifies abuse. However, here are some reasons why people abuse it.
Violence is a learned behavior and there are several factors that increase the risk of one person abusing another in a relationship . It is important to note that risk factors are not necessarily the cause of violence.
Although most research on this topic has focused on studying men who abuse women, the following risk factors can cross all social categories such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, class, etc. That is, any person could perpetuate violence against their partner or a family member, but some people are more susceptible to abuse according to risk factors.
Risk Factors For The Perpetration Of Intimate Partner Violence
Individual Factors
Low self-esteem
Low education or income
Being young
Aggressive or criminal behavior in youth.
Excessive alcohol and drug use
Anger and hostility
Economic stress (e.g. unemployment)
Emotional dependence and insecurity
Relationship Factors
Relationship conflicts, including jealousy, possessiveness, tension, divorce or separation.
Dominance and control of the relationship by one partner over the other.
Families experiencing economic stress
Association with antisocial and aggressive peers.
Lack of skills to solve social problems without violence.
Poor behavior control and impulsivity.
History of physical abuse
Desire for power and control in relationships.
History of physical or emotional abuse in childhood.
Hostility towards women
Unhealthy family relationships and interactions.
Witnessing violence between parents in childhood
Parents with less than high school education
History of experiencing physical discipline in childhood
Social factors
Traditional gender norms and gender inequality (for example, the idea that women should stay at home, not enter the workforce, and be submissive; men should support the family and make decisions)
Cultural norms that support aggression towards others.
Income inequality at the societal level
Weak health, educational, economic and social policies or laws
Visit the CDC page here for sources of information.
The only person responsible for the abuse is the person doing the abuse. It is never the fault of the victim or survivor.
If you need help or would like to speak with an advocate about your situation, call us at 509-869-0876.
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