One reason that this has been possible is that, at least in the city, there has been a decline in the importance of traditional social groups such as the family and the neighbourhood. The workplace is for many their main community, and for some the main source of their self-esteem. Women, who are generally still being socialized to be less assertive than men, are much less financially dependent on husbands and fathers, but correspondingly more so on their jobs.
Survival is a powerful motivator.
When people believe that their survival is at stake, they will put up with a lot. Often people will act the same way even when the belief that their survival requires maintaining an abusive relationship is irrational. Someone stuck in a codependent pattern, clinging to a bad situation, is not aware of his or her options. I would like to add some examples of the sorts of work situations my visitors have had difficulty with, and also how they freed themselves, if they did. She will also refer you to a hands-on expert in corporate politics if required.