Inquiry Info Point 3: The Cycle of Violence Adapted from: Arkansas Coalition Against Domestic Violence The cycle of violence gives insight into one of the most confusing aspects of family violence – whereby the victim often believes that they are to blame and deserve what is happening to them. The cycle begins when the victim attempts to placate their abuser and anticipate what will make them angry such as disobeying him. However, given violence is underpinned by a constant attempt to retain power and control and not because of actions of the victim, further violence is inevitable and the cycle continues. Over time, the victim comes to internalise the attitudes of the perpetrator as a protection mechanism and they now believe they are to blame, just as their abuser does. This in turn facilitates a broader environment where violence is far more accepted. The Report it will assess if this is happening in Samoa and if so how it can be addressed. 5.7 Myths of family violence Equally as important in building up a national understanding of the causes and impact of family violence is a comprehensive understanding of some of the myths of family violence in Samoa. Throughout the Report, the Commissioners highlight commonly held misconceptions and myths