On average, how many times will a victim leave an abuser before ending the relationship?

Victims of domestic violence often face a complex and challenging process when attempting to leave an abusive relationship. Research indicates that, on average, a victim may leave the abuser approximately seven times before ultimately ending the relationship for good. This number reflects the psychological, emotional, and practical barriers that individuals may encounter, such as fear of retaliation, financial constraints, emotional attachment, and lack of support systems.

Understanding this statistic is crucial in domestic violence response and intervention, as it highlights the need for ongoing support and resources for victims. Many may attempt to leave multiple times, often returning to the abuser due to a variety of pressures or hopes for change. Recognizing the repeated attempts to leave can inform the approaches taken by law enforcement and social service organizations, allowing them to offer more compassionate and effective assistance to those facing these difficult circumstances.