RISK IS INCREASED WHEN ABUSER MARGINALIZED

There is agreement among clinician's in the field of domestic violence that the risk to victims is increased when the abuser is "moved out" - physically and psychologically.  In some cases when the victim decides she is moving-on the risk to her safety is increased exponentially.  The decision to separate from a dysfunctional and dangerous relationship is a difficulty one that does not come easy.  In many cases when abuse trickles down to children or family pets a victim realizes she must act to protect her family.  Arguably when this occurs "the man becomes enraged with his loss of control at the attempt by the woman to "break the relationship" and engages in various acts of harassment which include stalking, threats, assault or other subtle forms of 'psychological warfare.'" (Brayden 1998)  By feeling marginalized an abusive man may feel insignificant and sometimes humilated - especially when police become involved in keeping the peace or responding to a violation of a stay-away order.  It is well known that abusers often experience feelings of deep resentment and anger.  At these times containment and intensive intervention may be necessary to assure for the safety of women and chilldren attempting to break free.

“Domestic violence homicides are predictable and therefore preventable,” says Jessica C. Brayden, Executive Director of RESPOND, Inc. in Sommerville, MA
VJ Geberth, (1998) Practical Homicide Investigation. Law and Order Magazine, Vol. 46 No. 112, November, pp 51-54