Battering or woman abuse is not an unusual phenomenon. It is any act of violence towards a woman partner. It could be slapping, pushing, hitting, kicking, choking, sexual abuse, or using a weapon. It also includes verbal abuse such as threats of violence, threats towards the children or other family members, or threats of using a weapon. Women who are physically abused or threatened by their partners can bring legal charges against them.
Physical abuse is a crime and the abusive person can be arrested.
T here are many reasons why a battered woman might stay in an abusive marriage or relationship. She might feel the children need their father despite his abuse of her. Her partner might threaten to get custody of the children if she leaves. She might still love her partner and hope for change or might stay in the marriage because of strong religious or cultural beliefs. She might be isolated from family and friends and have little or no support.