Fortunately, not many people I know had to deal with abusive partners. However, one of my close friends went through several years of a relationship with rather obvious psychological abuse. She split up with her partner several months ago, but they are staying in touch. It is rather strange and uncomfortable to witness, but my friend does not seem to think that anything is wrong.
There are different reasons younger people stay in abusive or violent relationships. First of all, it is a new experience for them, and they are only forming their ideas about love at that time (Kuther 988). Therefore, young adults do not know what to expect or how to react to abuse, especially when it is not expressed physically. Secondly, when physical and sexual abuse is involved, victims may stay in a relationship because they do not think they can escape (Kuther 997). Finally, in my experience, people may stay in a violent relationship because they think it is their duty to change their partner for the better. Such aspects as growing up in a conservative or religious environment may greatly impact the feeling of obligation to help the loved one.
Early adulthood is an important period in personal development, especially in the aspects that concern interpersonal relations, including romantic ones. For many people, it is the time when they first experience a serious romantic relationship. However, the lack of experience and uncertain expectations may lead a person into an abusive relationship. They may experience physical, psychological, or sexual abuse but do not always realize it. In such cases, it is important to be able to identify such a relationship in order to leave it.
Work Cited
Kuther, Tara L. Lifespan development: Lives in context. SAGE Publications, 2018.