Understanding Abuse and Its Cycle

Abuse

• Abuse is any behavior used to control someone's actions
• Abuse can happen to anyone regardless of if they experienced abuse in the past
• People brought up in abusive environments might consider the behavior normal
• Abuse puts the person being abused and their children's health at risk
• Abusive behavior is likely to be repeated if it has happened once
• Abuse often increases in severity, frequency and intensity over time
• It can create a cycle of abuse
• The honeymoon phase often disappears over time
• There is help available if abuse is experienced

Cycle of Abuse

• Tension building is the longest phase of the cycle
• The victim feels growing tension and tries to control the situation to prevent violence
• The victim is often unable to control the abuser and walks on eggshells
• Denial is a key aspect of the cycle helping to minimize the abuse
• The explosion is the actual abusive event which can be physical, sexual, emotional, verbal and financial

Neglect

• Children can experience neglect when they are not provided with the necessary things for their well-being such as food, clothing, housing, medical care, education, attention
• It also happens when children are given insufficient love, are not interacted with or shown affection
• Neglect can have a serious negative impact on children's growth and development

Parenting Together

• It is a shared responsibility even if the parents do not live in the same home
• Consistent communication is important, trying to understand the other's point of view
• Expect an emotional journey, talk about successes, challenges, hopes and fears as parents
• Embrace differences, agree on the overall parenting approach and be consistent as much as possible
• When parenting with extended family everyone must know their responsibilities

Parenting When Separated or Divorced

• Separation and divorce are stressful for the whole family
• Responsibilities and feelings for children do not change because of a change in family structure
• Maintain good communication which is even more important when parenting happens between two families
• Prevent toxic stress by reassuring children of parental love and their continued presence
• Help them understand that the separation is not their fault
• Do not make them feel responsible for their parents' decisions
• Follow regular routines to give children a sense of consistency
• Communicate with children about their feelings to understand that they may be angry or confused
• Create a plan with the former partner outlining how to handle transitions as the children grow
• Try to keep communication with your former partner respectful
• Avoid speaking negatively about your former partner in front of your child
• If you need to express negative feelings do it in private with aTrusted friend or counsellor
• Seek the help of a mediator to create a plan for parenting

Growing and Learning As Parents

• Parenting is a continuous learning process because children don’t come with instructions
• There is no expectation to have all the answers and it is important to ask for help
• There are support programs, groups and classes that can help handle everyday challenges, meet other parents and share experiences
• These programs are available for everyone, some are free and others are at a cost
• Many agencies offer subsidies for parents who cannot afford the programs
• Ask about child care availability during the programs

This quiz explores the various forms of abuse, the characteristics of the cycle of abuse, and the impact on individuals and families. Learn how abuse can escalate over time and understand the importance of seeking help. Gain insights into recognizing the signs of abuse and its long-term effects.