General Article The myths

Topic Selected: Domestic Abuse Book Volume: 441

It can be tempting to explain away abusive behaviour by making excuses.

Let’s bust some myths, shall we?

It can be tempting to explain away patterns of abusive behaviour but it’s important to call that what it is: making excuses.

Remember, there is only one person to blame for abuse – and that is the abuser.

Myth 1: Alcohol, drugs, and stress make men violent

Abusers are also violent when sober. Many men who drink never use violence. These are all excuses.

Myth 2: She would leave if it was really bad

There are many overlapping and intersecting reasons why women may stay. Leaving is difficult and takes time. It is a process.

Myth 3: Abusers grow up in violent homes

Violence is a choice an abuser makes; he alone is responsible.

Myth 4: Domestic abuse only happens to certain women

Domestic abuse can happen to any woman regardless of where they live, their profession, or their social, economic or ethnic background.

Myth 5: Some women deserve it

Men often claim their partner ‘makes them ...

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