Why People Stay in Abusive Relationships

Many people recognize that they are being mistreated or even abused, but choose to stay in the relationship for a number of reasons. After all, it is never easy to end a relationship, even a hurtful one.

 

Reasons People Stay in Unhappy/Abusive Relationships

  • Hope that the partner will change

  • Making light of the abuse

  • Blaming oneself

  • Fear of looking like a failure

  • Hopelessness

  • Gender roles

  • Embarrassment and shame

  • Financial dependence

  • Lack of supportive relationships

  • Fear of being physically hurt

  • Not wanting to be alone

  • Loyalty

  • Needing to rescue the partner or take care of him/her

  • Guilt

  • Children

  • Dependence on drugs and alcohol

  • Fear that there is no one else out there

 

Treatment Options

The first step is recognizing that the relationship you are in may not be a healthy one. But there are treatment options for those who are in addictive or abusive relationships. Some of these include:

  • Individual counseling

  • Self-esteem building

  • Assertiveness training

  • Psychoeducation on healthy versus unhealthy relationships

Nicki Masters