How Children feel when abuse is occurring between parents   Powerless because they can't stop the abuse Guilty believing that they somehow caused the abuse Angry blaming mom that somehow it was her fault Angry at Dad for hurting Mom Helpless because they feel a need to solve the problem but only end up getting hurt when they try to help Confused because parents may try to get children to choose sides Afraid for themselves and other family members Isolated/Insecure often making up excuses so they don't have to go home Dishonest/Embarrassed because they make up excuses to family and friends for mom's bruises Overwhelmed by the situation, often leading to poor school performance and avoiding friends Understanding why mom stays   Even though there are violent and bad times in the relationship, there are also loving and good times. She probably believes that she must stay married until "death do they part". She probably believes that the violence will stop if she does all the things a good wife should do She is isolated from family and friends by her husband who has told her she doesn't need anyone but him, and because she feels embarrassed about bruises and lacerations She is afraid She fears that if she leaves -the abuser will find her and hurt her even more -she won't be able to support herself or her children -the husband may get custody of the children because he has more money and can afford a better attorney.

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