Chapter 4 discusses IPV (Intimate Partner Violence). If it were “easier” for women to leave abusive relationships do you think more women would leave? Is there anything that can be done to make it easier for women to leave abusive situations? (p. 63)
Yes, if it were “easier” for women to leave abusive relationships, many more would likely do so. But “easy” is such a loaded word in this context because the barriers women face are often deep, complex, and layered.
Here are a few reasons why it’s not “easy” to leave:
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Fear: Many women fear what will happen if they leave. Abusers often threaten harm—towards the woman, her children, or even pets—if she tries to go. Statistically, the risk of violence can actually escalate when someone tries to leave.
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Financial dependence: Abusers often control finances, leaving women with little to no access to money, transportation, or job opportunities. Leaving means choosing between abuse and poverty or homelessness.
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Children: Many women stay for their kids—either to avoid disrupting their lives, or because they’re afraid of losing custody to the abuser, especially if the abuser is manipulative or legally savvy.
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Social isolation: Abusers often isolate victims from friends, family, or community resources. Without a support system, it can feel like there’s nowhere to go.
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Cultural, religious, or societal pressures: Some women face pressure to stay in marriages or relationships for cultural, religious, or family reasons. There may also be stigma around being a “single mother” or a “failed” relationship.
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Psychological control: Long-term abuse often involves gaslighting, manipulation, and eroded self-esteem. A woman may no longer believe she’s capable of surviving without the abuser or that she even deserves better.
If there were fewer barriers—more financial support, more safe housing, legal protection, child care, trauma-informed services, and community awareness—many more women would leave. APA