Violence is not constant in the relationship but it reoccurs. It can appear in outbursts, interspersed by periods of apparent calm. We call it a cycle of violence.

1. Increasing violence: The abuser creates a climate of tension (complaints, accusation, rough gestures).
2. Explosion: The abuser attacks psychologically or causes bodily harm.
3. Justification: The abuser excuses these violent acts as being caused by external factors (work problems, his or her partner's "bad behaviour").
4. Honeymoon: The abuser ceases these acts of violence, seeks forgiveness and promises it won't happen again.

Our team is able to help you better understand what you are going through.