DOMESTIC VIOLENCE is a pattern of abuse and control in an intimate relationship that escalates over time. The Cycle of Violence depicts this pattern, which consists of three phases.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month
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How to Help
Know a friend or family member who needs help? Download our How to Help guide.
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Power and Control
The Power and Control diagram is a particularly helpful tool in understanding the overall pattern of abusive and violent behaviors, which are used by an abusive partner to establish and maintain control over their partner.
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Understanding why they stay or leave
People who have never been abused often wonder why a survivor wouldn’t just leave an abusive relationship. They don’t understand that leaving can be more complicated than it seems. Leaving is often the most dangerous time for a survivor of abuse, because abuse is about power and control.
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Helpful things to do or say
Respect your friend or family member’s decisions. There are many reasons why survivors stay in abusive relationships. They may leave and return to the relationship many times. Do not criticize their decisions or try to guilt them. They will need your support even more during those times.
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Savannah's letter
A special perspective is offered by a former client’s daughter. Savannah lived at House of Hope and then Roots of Courage with her mom, Jennipher, when she was about 3 years old. You might recognize Jennipher from when she was a Celebrant in 2015 at Celebration of Achievement. Recently, Jennipher shared what Savannah, age 13 ½, wrote about her mom and the role Family Tree has played in their life. Jennipher has worked so hard to provide a life of safety, stability and healing for her family. It is an honor to share Savannah’s story during Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
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Domestic Violence services
Learn more about our Domestic Violence programs and services.
