The most compelling reasons for a victim of domestic abuse to stay are the very realistic fear that, if she leaves, the violent partner will harm or kill her, as well as a concern that the victim will not be able to secure safe harbor for her children.
1. Fear of additional violence by the perpetrator.
2. Difficulty finding accommodations and transitional support and safety for the victim and children.
3. Lack or alternatives for employment and financial assistance, especially for victims with children.
4. Difficulty obtaining legal assistance.
5. Being immobilized by psychological and physical trauma.
6. Adhering to cultural/family/religious values that encourage keeping the family together at all costs.
7. Continuing to hope or believe the perpetrator's promises to change.
Source: Cosc, the National Office for the Prevention of Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence in Ireland. Cosc is an Irish word meaning "to stop" or "to prevent."
Click here for Atlanta's responses on Twitter to #WhyIStayed. For more information, check out this TED talk by the author of "Crazy Love" about why she, a Harvard grad and MBA, stayed with her abuser for as long as she did.
