Why do woman stay in SICK mentally abusive relationships?

Question

I have a friend who is the bread winner/no kids and is mentally abused by her so-called husband. It's as if she has VICTIM stamped on her forehead!

Why do you become so week?

What's there to be a fraid of? She can't get any worse!

Answer 1

Things can always get worse.  It could be physical and mental.  It is called mental abuse because it affects the way we think, feel, and act. She probably believes the diarrhea that comes out of his mouth. From someone that knows--be careful.  He will not let you get close enough to undo what hes done.  He will keep her from you.

Answer 2

Lack of self esteem. She thinks she needs this man.  Could be something from her childhood, or the way she was raised.  Help your friend as much as possible, and do not judge others.  Build her up. There are many things that go on behind closed doors in a marriage like this one.  

Answer 3

As her friend, help her build her self-esteem up.

We can see the situation different than they can.  Trust me, been there.  

It's not fear of leaving them, it's fear of being without them.  Weird, I know.  

It can stem from anxiety or depression also, which need to be treated by a doctor.

Dont judge her, give her support.  It's hard to get out of the cycle of abuse, and emtional abuse is hardest because someone these manipulitive men can make us think it WAS our fault, and it makes sense too.

Sad I know.  But such is life.

Answer 4

Honestly, in mentally abusive relationships often times the abuser switches back and forth from loving to hateful. Mental abuse is just that it is a mental battle. Your friend knows whats going on but those times he probably isn't being a jerk just confuse the situation all the more. There are plenty of sites on the net about this.

Honestly my last abusive relationship I had to check myself because I knew that I was way better than what I was living through.  Even at times confused on if I was trippin or if it was him. I felt like I was going crazy. I even started seeing a psychiatrist. All things for a reason .. long story short I had to then plan how to get rid of his abusive x*x and move on!!! Done !!! Left him will never go back and blocked him so he can't find me.

Answer 5

Because they probably have no money and can't see their way out of the relationship, that's why I tell them on here to open a bank account on the quiet without their partner knowing and start saving to get themselves out of the relationship.

Answer 6

most likely because she believes that things will one day get better, also she has no self worth, after living like this with an abuser for so long people get in these ruts, think that living this way is normal.they stay because they fear the unknown,love the jerk,or just forgive easily and have no confidence that they can survive without this person.

Answer 7

People stay in abusive situations for many reasons.

Individuals who are abusive want control, and they are usually very methodical in gaining control over another person. They know how to push buttons, use just enough love/hate, and promise to change (and sometimes do for a while) when their victim tries to leave.

She is not weak, she is not mentally ill, she does not like it.

When we are in crisis, any of us, we will stick with whatever is familiar, even if familiar hurts us. A survivor of domestic violence is in crisis and is trying to survive. Sometimes victims can begin to believe the lies they are told, they feel isolated from anyone who could help, or they don't want to feel like a failure for leaving.

If you want to help your friend, I would encourage you to speak to her in a positive tone. Don't tell her she's crazy or stupid. That will make her defensive and is probably what he is telling her, so you simply confirm what the abuser is saying.

Be specific when you tell her what you do not like about their relationship.

I would pass along the number for the National Domestic Violence Helpline, too (1-800-799-SAFE). It is a free, confidential call to find a domestic violence program near her. She can receive counseling and learn more about her options.  

Answer 8

Yes, but I don't think they realize that.  They think they are no good and no one else would love them.  Love honey

Answer 9

she has low self esteem and feels she cannot do better for herself.  she needs more self confidence and work on her esteem.

Answer 10

Because of poor self image..fear..controlled by the spouse

Answer 11

She is probably in love and she is afraid that she will not meet another man. I have know idea why some women are like that because if it was me I will not hestitate to leave.

Answer 12

cuz they are mentally sick themselves

Answer 13

it's because they are "sick" themselves and don't know how to do better for themselves....sad.