According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), a complex variety of factors can create risks for violence in a relationship. There are long-term influences such as childhood exposure to abuse and mental health issues such as depression or bipolar disorder. Experts at the CDC note that there are also situational triggers that may increase the potential for violence. Awareness of these triggers can be essential for personal safety in a violent relationship.
Exposure to Abuse
Experts at Helpguide.org note that individuals who have been exposed to domestic violence during childhood are at a greater risk to commit acts of violence in intimate relationships. If partners have a history of abuse in one of their own families, it is more likely that conflict in the relationship may trigger abusive or violent behavior.
Abuse of Drugs or Alcohol
While the use of alcohol and drugs is not a direct cause of domestic violence or abusive relationships, experts at the CDC note that the use of intoxicating substances will often increase the likelihood for violence. Intoxication will often lower inhibitions and reduce impulse control, and this combination can trigger acts of violence or abuse, especially if conflict occurs between two partners.
Loss of Economic Security
The CDC notes that the loss of employment or economic security can not only cause stress and conflict in a relationship, but will often increase the risk for violence. The loss of employment can result in lower self-esteem, and for individuals with poor coping skills, this can result in abusive behaviors.
Termination of Relationship
According to the CDC, the risk of abuse in a relationship often increases if a relationship becomes unstable and one partner expresses a desire to terminate the relationship. Partners who intend to leave an abusive relationship are often counseled regarding personal safety because an abuser's violence is likely to intensify as the victim attempts to terminate the relationship.
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