An abusive pattern may include the following:
- An abuser threatens violence.
- An abuser harms a partner. The harm may be emotional, sexual or physical.
- An abuser apologizes and promises to change. Gifts or favors may be part of the apology.
- Tension builds in the relationship, and the cycle repeats itself.
- Over time, the violence may get worse and happen more often.
Although this is a common way for domestic violence to happen, your situation may be different.