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Batterer Intervention
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THE STAGES IN THE CYCLE OF VIOLENCE PHASE 1- TENSION BUILDING This phase is composed of many minor incidents of abuse that gradually increases in severity. The tension builds and builds until it becomes unbearable and all control is lost. Quite often the event that will trigger the second phase is a power struggle set up by the male. He issues an ultimatum which cannot be met by the woman and rather than losing face he reacts violently and explosively. PHASE 2- ACUTE BATTERING INCIDENT This phase is characterized by explosive and uncontrollable rage. The lack of control and the element of overkill distinguish the acute incidents from the minor incidents. Although he may start out by justifying his behavior to himself, the batterer ends up in a blind rage. His original intent is to teach the woman a lesson and emphasize his power, but he winds up seriously and severely beating her. Afterwards he has a great tendency to rationalize the event. Phase 2 is a brief period and it is impossible to predict the type of violence, when and where it will occur, or its severity. The attack is followed by shock, denial, and disbelief. Batterers will rationalize the seriousness of the incident and will minimize its effect. PHASE 3- REMORSEFUL, CONTRITE STAGE This phase is characterized as calm with the batterer exhibiting kind, loving behavior toward his mate. He knows he has overreacted, he is very sorry and he wishes to redeem himself. Since the tension is gone, he asks for forgiveness. Although he honestly believes the will not do it again his reason is that she has “learned her lesson” and there will be no more need to exert his power. All his actions are for reconciliation and he will extend his efforts at this time, if necessary to involve himself in therapy (though it’s possible he will drop out of therapy when sand if he resumes Phase 1). At the completion of Phase 3, Phase 1 begins again, and the cycle continues: There is a way out, however. Since violence is learned behavior, it can be unlearned. Counseling can teach the batterer appropriate responses to anger and frustration. Treatment can make possible a peaceful and loving family life for the batterer as well as for the abused woman and the children. (This information draws upon the work of Dr. Lenore Walker, including The Battered Woman, Harper & Row, 1980.) |
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