Abstract
Women who are physically and mentally abused by their partners have been described as suffering from Battered Women's Syndrome. An element of Battered Women's Syndrome is repeatedly returning to the abusive relationship, putting oneself at risk for further harm. Clinical case studies suggest that women who are strongly religious may believe it their duty to remain in abusive relationships to honor their marriage vows or to demonstrate their faith. This paper explores the basis of those beliefs and advocates a counseling perspective that frees abuse sufferers from a sense of obligation to their victimizers.
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Burnett, M.N. Suffering and sanctification: The religious context of Battered Women's Syndrome. Pastoral Psychol 44, 145–149 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02251400
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02251400