Domestic Violence - Rihanna and Chris Brown

Is It Ever Okay to Get Back Together with Your Abusive Partner?

Mar 2, 2009

Recent reports of physical abuse between pop stars Rihanna and Chris Brown have fueled discussions about domestic violence. Should you ever take back an abuser?

Domestic violence is something no one should ever have to endure. Sadly, domestic violence occurs very frequently. It is a very serious problem and is the leading cause of injury to women ages 15 to 44. Victims may suffer emotional traumas, such as depression, anxiety and isolation. Physical traumas include bruises, broken bones and even death.

Rihanna and Chris Brown: Their Story

The story of abuse between these two young pop sensations hit the media like a snowstorm after both stars cancelled their appearances at the 2009 Grammy Awards amid reports of domestic violence. As the story unfolded, it became evident that this was not the first time Rihanna suffered physical abuse at the hands of Chris Brown. Rihanna, 21 and Chris Brown, 19 have been linked together since 2007. Allegedly, Rihanna has sustained bruises to her face and eyes on more than one occasion due to attacks from Brown.

These pop stars recently stunned the world again with reports of reconciliation. With the help of hip-hop mogul P. Diddy, Rihanna and Brown are together once again.

Domestic Violence Fast Facts

It is difficult to determine exactly how often domestic violence occurs. Battery survivors often experience fear, shame and guilt, making it unlikely for them to report their attackers. Aside from being female, there is no “type” of victim, as domestic violence affects women of all races, classes and education levels. Below are some harrowing statistics:

Domestic Violence and Recidivism

Several studies have found that there is a high recidivism rate among batterers. According to one such study, “Pattern of Reassult in Batterer Programs,” the recidivism rate among psychologically untreated batterers is quite significant at almost 61%.

Walking Away from an Abuser

Leaving an abuser can be even more difficult than staying. Many victims have suffered increased abuse as a result of leaving. However, there are resources that can help. Once a victim has mustered the courage and support to walk away from her abuser, it is important that she not take him back, especially if the attacker is not in a domestic abuser treatment program. If he has not been given any reason or tools to change his behavior, he probably won’t.

Many abusers will use gifts and other such motivators to get the victim to forgive him. In the case of Rihanna and Chris Brown, he reportedly sent her a necklace to apologize for the infraction. Even if you believe the batterer is truly sorry, your safety is paramount. Remember, you have the right to feel safe and secure in your own home and in your relationships.

Resources for Getting Help

References

Senator Joseph Biden, U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary, Violence Against Women: Victims of the System, 1991.

Statistics, National Clearinghouse for the Defense of Battered Women, Ruth Peachey, M.D. 1988.

"Pattern of Reassault in Batterer Programs" (Violence and Victims, vol. 12, no. 4, 1997), Edward Gondolf.

Michael Cassidy, Caroline G. Nicholl, & Carmen R. Ross (2001). Results of a Survey Conducted by the Metropolitan Police Department of Victims who Reported Violence Against Women. Available from the DC Metropolitan Police Department (202-727-5029).

M.A. Straus (1999). The controversy over domestic violence by women: A methodological, theoretical, and sociology of science analysis. In X.B. Arriaga & S. Oskamp Eds.), Violence in Intimate Relationships (p.17-44). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

J. Archer (2000). Sex differences in aggression between heterosexual partners: A meta-analytic review. Psychological Bulletin, Vol. 126, p.651-680.

O.W. Barnett, C.Y. Lee & R.E. Thelen (1997). Gender differences in attributions of self-defense and control in interpartner aggression. Violence Against Women, Vol. 3., p. 462-481.

E.B. Foa, M. Cascardi, L.A. Zoellner & N.C. Feeny (2000). Psychological and environmental factors associated with partner violence. Trauma, Violence & Abuse, Vol. 1, p. 67-91.

The copyright of the article Domestic Violence - Rihanna and Chris Brown in Physical Abuse is owned by Sabrina Kinckle. Permission to republish Domestic Violence - Rihanna and Chris Brown in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Mar 8, 2009 10:55 AM

Guest :

NO.... unequivically no, never accept domestic abuse! It will return(most usually with a vengeance).

Mar 10, 2009 7:32 AM

Guest :

Good article! It's really important to put a spotlight on this problem now as it involves two pop stars that are very popular with young women. Unfortunately, Rhianna is making a bad choice here IMO and is setting a bad example to her young fans. Arguments can be made about whether or not it's her responsibility to set a good example at all, but as a public figure, she at the very least exposes herself to that kind of scrutiny. So, as an opportunity for women's advocates and domestic abuse prevention people, this is a great time to get the message out there. Domestic violence can not be tolerated whether you're a pop star or not.

Mar 24, 2009 10:25 AM

Guest :

it's quite sad that it took two celebrities to bring the world to see the seriousness of domestic abuse. Domestic abuse amongst teens is growing everyday and i myself have been a victim of domestic abuse. Despite the lateness it's refreshing to see young people across the globe becoming more aware of domestic abuse and the affects of it.