She believes his threats to kill her and the children.

She loves him.

She hopes he will change.

She is economically and/or emotionally dependent on him.

She has been isolated from family, friends and other support systems.

She often believes his excuses including the she "deserves" the abuse or that alcohol made him do it.

She has no idea what services and resources are available to her.

The abuse takes place in a short period of time. Afterwards, he is generally gentle, loving, and promises "it will never happen again."

She feels guilty and believes that if only she improves and stops making mistakes, the abuse will stop.

She believes it is her moral obligation, that it is her responsibility to maintain a good relationship and to keep the children with their father.

She doesn't know she has the right NOT to be hit.