Statistically, it will take seven to 16 attempts before the victim is able to make the final break and leave her abuse permanently.  There are as many reasons for her to stay with him as there are victims, but some of the most common are:  

o      It is safer for her to stay than it is for her to leave.  Because the batterer needs to control his victim completely, he cannot allow her to leave the relationship.  He looses his control if she is not present.  This is the most dangerous time for her, and when most women are killed by their abusers.  Her risk of serious injury or death increases 75% when she leaves or tries to leave.

o      She is economically dependent on him.

o      She loves him:  he is not abusive to her all the time, and when he is not, he is often very loving and charming.

o      Her religious or cultural beliefs tell her that she must preserve the marriage at all cost.

o      Her belief that her children need their father.

o      She does not know that there is any option open to her. She does not know what resources the community offers, and has no way to access those resources.

o      She is isolated from her support system and does not believe she will receive help from her friends, her family, and her community or law enforcement.