Introduction
Many battered women do not attempt to leave the battering situation, even when it may seem to outsiders that escape is possible.
Obstacles to leaving
A number of factors or obstacles can make terminating an abusive relationship difficult:
- The woman is unable to predict her own safety.
- The woman believes that nothing she or anyone else does will alter her circumstances.
- The woman may lack economic or other tangible resources.
- The woman fears retaliation.
- The woman may continue to feel an emotional attachment to the male.
- The woman may have a desire to provide the children with a father in the home.
- The woman may feel shame and embarrassment.
- The woman may deny the severity of the abuse.
