LENORE WALKER CYCLE OF VIOLENCE Flashcards
(6 cards)
LENORE WALKER’S CYCLE OF VIOLENCE
In 1979, psychologist Lenore Walker identified a recurring pattern in many abusive relationships, known as the Cycle of Violence. This theory suggests that domestic violence often follows a predictable sequence of events that repeat over time. The length of the cycle varies—some relationships go through it within a day, while others take weeks or months. However, not all abusive relationships follow this pattern; in some cases, the abuse is constant with little to no relief.
Walker’s Cycle of Domestic Violence consists of three main phases: the Tension Building Phase, the Acute Battering Episode, and the Honeymoon Phase. Over time, this cycle becomes self-reinforcing, making it difficult for victims to escape.
I. TENSION BUILDING PHASE
The Tension Building Phase is the first stage of the cycle and is characterised by a gradual increase in stress and conflict within the relationship. This tension may arise from common domestic issues such as money problems, children, or job stress. While these issues are normal in any relationship, in an abusive dynamic, they serve as triggers for the abuser’s aggression.
During this phase, verbal abuse, criticism, and emotional manipulation begin. The abuser may become moody, unpredictable, or easily irritated. Small disagreements escalate as the abuser starts to exert control over the victim’s behaviour, often through threats, passive-aggressive comments, and psychological intimidation.
To avoid conflict, the victim may try to placate the abuser by being overly accommodating, giving in to demands, or avoiding confrontation. However, none of these actions stop the abuse. Instead, the abuser’s frustration continues to escalate. The victim often feels fearful and powerless, sensing that violence is imminent but unable to predict exactly when it will occur.
As the tension builds to a breaking point, the relationship enters the next phase.
II. ACUTE BATTERING EPISODE
The Acute Battering Episode is the shortest but most dangerous phase of the cycle. This is when physical violence begins. The abuser lashes out aggressively, causing physical, emotional, verbal, or sexual harm.
The trigger for this violent outburst is often an external event (such as job loss, financial difficulties, or substance use) or the abuser’s emotional state (such as feelings of frustration, jealousy, or anger). However, it is not caused by the victim’s behaviour—this is an important distinction. Regardless of what the victim does or does not do, the abuser ultimately chooses to engage in violence.
The violence in this phase can range from slaps, punches, or choking to severe beatings, destruction of property, or sexual assault. The unpredictability of the attack makes it especially terrifying for the victim, who may experience shock, disorientation, and physical injury.
Some experts suggest that in rare cases, victims may unconsciously provoke the attack to “get it over with”—a psychological response to living in constant fear. However, this does not mean the victim is responsible for the violence. The abuser is the one in control and is solely accountable for their actions.
Once the abuser has released their aggression, the violence stops, and the Honeymoon Phase begins.
III. THE HONEYMOON PHASE
In the Honeymoon Phase, the abuser expresses remorse and attempts to make amends. They may feel ashamed or guilty about their violent behaviour and try to downplay the severity of the abuse. To justify their actions, they might shift blame onto the victim, saying things like:
* “You made me do it.”
* “If you hadn’t argued with me, this wouldn’t have happened.”
* “I was just really stressed. I didn’t mean to hurt you.”
At the same time, the abuser may engage in affectionate, apologetic, and generous behaviour to regain the victim’s trust. This can include buying gifts, being affectionate, making promises to change, or even seeking therapy. The victim, longing for the love and stability that once existed in the relationship, wants to believe these promises.
This phase creates a false sense of hope. The victim may convince themselves that the abuse was an isolated incident and that their partner will change. The abuser may also reinforce this belief by temporarily adopting loving and kind behaviour, making the victim feel valued again.
However, over time, the Honeymoon Phase fades, and tension starts to build again, restarting the cycle. In many cases, this phase shortens or disappears completely, leaving only the Tension Building and Battering phases.
IV. THE PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAP OF THE CYCLE
The repetition of this cycle creates a psychological trap for the victim, making it extremely difficult to leave. Several factors contribute to this:
- Emotional Manipulation: The abuser convinces the victim that they are loved and that the abuse is not as serious as it seems.
- Fear: The victim fears retaliation if they try to leave. Abusers often threaten harm to the victim, children, or pets.
- Financial Dependence: Many victims lack the financial means to support themselves outside of the relationship.
- Hope for Change: The Honeymoon Phase fuels the belief that the abuser will change, making the victim reluctant to leave.
- Social and Cultural Pressures: Some victims face stigma, lack of support, or cultural expectations that discourage leaving a marriage or partnership.
V. BREAKING THE CYCLE
Breaking free from the Cycle of Domestic Violence is challenging but possible with the right support and intervention. Effective strategies include:
* Seeking support from friends, family, or domestic violence shelters.
* Contact legal or advocacy services for protection and guidance.
* Developing a safety plan for escaping the relationship.
* Engaging in therapy or counselling to rebuild self-esteem and overcome trauma.
Society, law enforcement, and support organisations need to recognise the patterns of abuse and provide resources to help victims safely escape and recover from violent relationships.
