Episode 2: Understanding the cycle of abuse

In this episode, we take a deeper look at the cycle of abuse, what it is, how it functions, and how it impacts women both during a relationship and after separation. We begin by sharing our own first encounters with the cycle and then break down each phase, exploring why it’s so confusing, why it’s so effective at trapping women, and why outsiders so often miss what’s really happening.

The cycle describes the patterned behaviors of abusive partners. It includes three phases.

1. Honeymoon – manipulative kindness
2. Tension – walking on eggshells
3. Explosion – the most devastating behaviors

Each phase in the cycle is a part of the abuse. The honeymoon isn’t love; it’s grooming. And the unpredictability is what makes the cycle so confusing and so effective.

Learn more and get resources:

• Show notes
• Allison Epp, counselling
• Jo Neill, counselling
• When Love Hurts, contact