It is very difficult for someone who has not experienced the terror of an abusive relationship to comprehend such a life. Those on the outside listen to the horror stories of emergency room visits, terrifying ordeals in the middle of the night, and frightened children forced to witness the violence. And sooner or later, one of the most commonly asked questions is verbalized. "If things are so bad, why don't you just leave?"
Has that question ever crossed your mind? You may have a friend or family member who has finally mustered the courage to tell you physical violence has been an ongoing reality in her marriage. She tries to communicate her fears of further injury, her concerns for the safety of the children, and her anxieties about leaving. You pray with her, counsel her to seek safety, and do your best to provide resources to assist. Yet you encounter a puzzling and continual hesitation. What's going on?
"Why Women Stay in Abusive Relationships" was written to answer such questions. Contained within its pages are some of the typical reasons women are so reluctant to leave an abusive relationship. While by no means an exhaustive list, the book does provide those on the outside with a glimpse into the world of relationship violence. And by understanding the complexities of the struggles battered women face, readers will be better equipped to offer insightful, compassionate, and effective counsel and intercession.
