Breaking the Cycle of Abuse

Campus Health Center

Remorse

The Cycle of Abuse

Tension

ViolenceReconciliation

Phase 1 Tension-Building

A time of minor conflicts during which threats of violence may increase.

Phase 2 Violence

Violence erupts and the abuser may throw objects, hit, slap, kick, choke, sexually abuse, or use weapons against the partner.

Phase 3 Remorse

The abuser may apologize and express guilt or shame. May buy gifts for victim. May promise to go into treatment and/or “change.”

Phase 4 Reconciliation

Abuser and victim reconcile and begin abuse cycle again. Chances are that the next assault will be more severe.

Actions to Take

Step 1

• Tell someone• Call 1-800-897-Link

Step 2

• Recognize signs of impending danger• Ensure your safety• Know where you will go to escape the violence

Step 3

• Pack a suitcase and store it with a friend• Keep medicine, ID, cash, and credit cards in a safe place so you can get

them on short notice• Call the police or sheriff—physical abuse is a crime

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Non-Violence = EqualityEconomic partnership, shared responsibility, responsible parenting, honesty and accountability, trust and support, respect, negotiation, and fairness

Physical Violence = Power & ControlEconomic abuse, using children, minimizing, denying, blaming, isolation, emotional abuse, intimidation, coercion, and threats

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Resources

San Juan County Sheriff’s Office

Crime Victim Advocate Program

Obtaining Protective Orders

For more information contact: