The Vicious Cycle

The ‘cycle of violence’ is a terrible period to endure while in a relationship.  It makes leaving the relationship even harder.

Many people ask; why does the abused party stay in the relationship? Why not stand up and leave? For married couples, the reasons range from limited resources to not wanting to leave the children behind.

When it comes to teen relationships, those reasons do not exist, but it is often still just as hard to leave.  When I was in my relationship, the flowers and “I’m sorry’s” and “I love you’s” made me feel better, and I always believed him when he said it wouldn’t happen again.

Honeymoon Period – Everything is perfect.  The “I’m sorry’s” are constant, apologies and promises to never to happen again.  It sounds too good to be true; and usually is.

Tension Building – The “walking on egg shells” feeling.  You know something is going to happen soon, and are extra careful not to set your partner off.  Knowing it is coming soon, you try to make sure everything is right and hopefully not start a fight.

Serious Battering Incident- Any type of abuse can occur, whether emotional or physical. Both types of abuse happen more often than you realize.  Sometimes the violence can be so hurtful that staying in the relationship is just absurd, but then there are the “I’m sorry’s” (see Honeymoon Period).

If you or someone you know is stuck in the cycle,

The Teen Dating Violence Helpline 1 (866) 331-9474

Relationship Violence. Break the Silence. Be Part of the Solution.
You Can Make a Difference, You Can Save Lives.
-Sarah