Believe that their partner would change and that the abuse would stop.

In families where abusive relationships have been normalised, people fail to recognise the red flags of an unhealthy relationship.

Financially dependent on their partner

Lack of support from family to leave the partner

Loving their partner, attachment to their partner and feeling responsible for the abuse they face. 

Feeling scared to make life-changing decisions or feeling guilty over the failure of their relationship. 

Fear of emotional trauma that their child would experience in the case of separation

Fear of loss of custody of children

Societal pressure and shame – In India, divorce is considered taboo and domestic violence is a private matter that many refuse to acknowledge or speak about. Hence, separating from the perpetrator becomes an ordeal for many survivors when the relationship status is given more than the safety of the survivor. 

Fear that their problems will not be taken seriously by society as well as law enforcement agencies. 

Lack of access to resources and information regarding domestic violence redressal mechanisms. 

Disability – If someone is dependent on others for physical support, they might find it difficult to leave as they might equate their well-being to being in the relationship.