Violent behavior learned as a child, and then repeated as an adult
This article is about broader pattern of violence and intergenerational cycle of violence. For the
social cycle theory within one couple's pattern of abuse, see
Cycle of abuse.
The term cycle of violence refers to repeated and dangerous acts of violence as a cyclical pattern,[1] associated with high emotions and doctrines of retribution or revenge.[citation needed] The pattern, or cycle, repeats and can happen many times during a relationship.[1] Each phase may last a different length of time, and over time the level of violence may increase.[citation needed] The phrase has been increasingly widespread since first popularized in the 1970s.[2]
It often refers to violent behaviour learned as a child, and then repeated as an adult, therefore continuing on in a perceived cycle.[3]
- ^ a b The cycle of violence. Archived 2014-09-28 at the Wayback Machine Domestic Violence and Abuse,
Signs of Abuse and Abusive Relationships. HELPGUIDE.org. Retrieved November 21, 2011.
- ^ Google Ngram search
- ^ Fagan, A. A. (2005). The Relationship Between Adolescent Physical Abuse and Criminal Offending: Support for an Enduring and Generalized Cycle of Violence. Journal of Family Violence. 20(5):279-290.