A 28-year-old woman is currently in a violent relationship. She informs you that she doesn’t mine a few punches now and then. “It’s better than being alone. Look, I grew up in violent home, I am used to it.” She’s been in two other relationships, both of which were violent.
a) What underlying issues should be addressed ? (at least two)
I. Pattern of abuse
II. Self-esteem
III. Fear of being alone
b) Interpretative response.
I get the sense that somehow that you feel you deserve to be abused, that you’re not worth being treated with respect.