Domestic violence plagues millions of people worldwide, but so often it slips beneath the radar – that is, until things reach a terrifying level. Also, it is so important to recognize the cycle of domestic violence and know what red flags show up before its too late. This blog post will delve into the domestic violence cycle and mark some of those vital red flags.

The Problem of Domestic Abuse

Tension Building The Continuum of Domestic Violence typically starts with a phase called Tension-Building. At this stage, the abuser becomes more irritable and easily agitated. It can make the victim feel as though he or she is "walking on eggshells" to avoid lashing out and triggering an angry response. Small discomforts can turn to bigger unrest, and that in fear overtime builds a culture of anxiety.

The build-up to the crisis eventually comes with a sometimes severe battering incident in which one of you lashes out. This might look like physical assault, verbal insults or threats to safety, coercive partnerships and control over expression sheets. In this cycle, the abuser act without any warning of what is about to happen and then they come with even worse actions that subsequently place their victim in shock or had them left traumatized.

The Reconciliation or Honeymoon Phase Shortly after the abuser may enter the Reconciliation, where he admits to fault and change They might apologize, shower the victim with love and gifts as a means of compensation. For the person on the receiving end, this part can be difficult given it may have seemed like a one-off or that they are genuinely remorseful.

Peaceful or Honeymoon Phase After the reconciliation phase, comes a period of peace where it may seem as if the abuser is on their best behavior. But this stage generally doesn't last (problems my be still rutting about underneath) Some time later, the cycle starts all over again and tension increases once more.

Recognizing the Red Flags

Knowing the domestic violence cycle is critical, as it will help you spot early indicators which means before things get worse and out of control. Some red flag indicators to look out for are:

Extreme jealousy and possessiveness: The abuser becomes angry when you contact friends or family, the abuser may monitor your whereabouts at all times.

Mood swings: One moment they could be angry with you, the next affectionate…it's abuse if that is coupled of course.

Separation: Abuser would try to cut-off victim from support system and make them more dependent on the abuser.

Violence or intimidation: This refers to physical, mental and any form of threat.

Victim blaming: On the abusers part, they can deflect any responsibility for their actions by accusing the victim of "asking" to be abused.

Conclusion

As we know, realizing the cycle of domestic violence and if you are in it or about to be, recognizing red flags is a way out before things get worse. If you or someone that you know is in a dangerous domestic violence situation, please turn to the authorities for support.