Women’s Day: Battered Woman Syndrome (Intimate Partner Violence): What Is It? Stages And Signs

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Intimate partner violence - previously known as battered woman syndrome or battered person syndrome - is a psychological condition that develops when a person is abused by a partner.

The battered woman syndrome is considered a subcategory of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

What Is Intimate Partner Violence?

Regardless of gender, sex, age, social class, or education, abuse can occur. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) refers to intimate partner violence as the type of abuse that occurs within a romantic relationship [1].

When someone lives with battered woman syndrome, they may feel helpless. This can lead them to believe they deserve the abuse, and they are unable to escape it. In many instances, this is why victims do not report their abuse to the police or a loved one.

What Are The Stages Of Battered Woman Syndrome?

It is important to understand that battered women syndrome may vary from one person to another due to the unique circumstances they find themselves in. That being said, there are generally considered to be four stages to battered women syndrome [2].

• Denial. The individual is unwilling to accept that he or she has been abused, or they justify it as a one-time event.
• Sense of guilt. The individual believes that the abuse was his or her fault.
• The enlightenment phase occurs when the person realizes that they or didn't deserve the abuse and that their partner is an abusive individual.
• There is a sense of accountability. When the person accepts that only the abuser is responsible for the abuse, they will begin to investigate the possibility of leaving the relationship.

What Are The Signs Of Battered Woman Syndrome?

An individual in an abusive relationship may experience the following thoughts or perceptions [3]:

• They believe that the abuse is their fault
• Keep the abuse a secret from family and friends
• Fear for their own lives or the lives of their children
• Believe that the abuser is all-knowing and can observe their every move

Warning Signs Of Battered Woman Syndrome

Watch for several important symptoms that may indicate that someone you know is in an abusive relationship and needs assistance [4].

• Making excuses not to see friends, or family, or do activities they used to do
• Having an anxious or fearful attitude toward their partner
• Consistently lying about or not explaining bruises or injuries
• Having limited access to funds or transportation
• Frequent calls from a significant other

Side Effects Of Battered Woman Syndrome

There are several serious side effects associated with battered woman syndrome [5].

The short-term side effects of battered woman syndrome include depression, lowered self-esteem, impaired relationships with friends and family, severe anxiety, feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness, and a sense of helplessness.

The long-term effects of battered woman syndrome include PTSD-like symptoms, a long-term stress-related illness that may result in a number of health problems, including high blood pressure and associated cardiac problems, chronic back pain or headaches, and an increased risk of developing diabetes, asthma, depression, and immune dysfunction.

Treatment For Battered Woman Syndrome

Treatment for battered women syndrome begins with getting them to a safe place far from their abuser [6].

In the event that you or someone you care about is suffering from battered woman syndrome, you can develop a safety plan and a getaway plan without the abuser on your side. It is also advisable to have a doctor examine any injuries that may have resulted from the abuse.

On A Final Note...

In the event that you or someone you care about is suffering from battered woman syndrome, you should seek immediate assistance.

It is possible to treat battered woman syndrome and lead a fulfilling life if you or someone close to you suffer from this condition.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.