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Changes in the Batterer’s Abusive Pattern
A batterer’s pattern of abusive behavior may change. Sometimes the batterer uses more psychological tactics and at other times more physical abuse. There is no evidence that domestic violence progresses in a straight fashion from verbal insults to minor assaults to homicide. Some batterers’ physical violence escalate, while for others the use of physical violence stabilizes or even decreases as their use of other tactics increases. The batterer will change behavior and use tactics that are most useful in gaining and maintaining control. There is no evidence that a batterer will stop on his own. Even in research, where the use of physical force seems to have stopped for a period of time, it is unclear whether the batterer merely switched to non-physical tactics of control or whether the end of physical force will be permanent.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: PURPOSEFUL, COERCIVE BEHAVIOR
Domestic violence is purposeful and directed at achieving compliance from or control over the victim. The pattern is not random or “out of control” behavior. Batterers who minimize or excuse their behavior by claiming they “lost it” or “were out of control” have actually made specific choices. Batterers follow their own internal set of rules for their behavior. Some will batter only in particular ways (e.g., hit certain parts of the body). Others use violence only toward their victims even though they may be angry with their boss, other family members or friends. Some will only hit in private, while others hit in public. Such decision-making indicates that they are actually in control of their abusive behaviors. Interviews with batterers reveal that when using both obvious and not so obvious forms of abuse, batterers know what they want from victims. Batterers will use varying combinations of physical force and/or threats of harm and intimidating acts to instill fear in victims. At times they will use other kinds of manipulations through gifts, promises and indulgences. Regardless, their intent is to get something from the victim, to establish domination over them, or to punish them. Batterers selectively choose tactics that work to control their victim.
UNDERSTANDING THE CAUSES OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
This section is provided to increase your knowledge of the dynamics of violent relationships and the characteristics of survivors and batterers. A comprehensive understanding of the cultural, familial, psychological and personal factors that create and perpetuate domestic violence will enable the EMS provider to recognize and more effectively manage domestic violence calls.
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