In this episode, I discuss the connection between having 1 abusive relationship and the increased likelihood that you’ll have another. There are many reasons for this, and it’s backed by several studies. Using a my own personal life experiences and the conclusions of these studies, let’s talk about how and why being abused makes you the perfect target for MORE abuse, how abusers WILL use your past against you, and how to finally stop the cycle.
One correction: I said “ACE” stands for Adverse Childhood Events. It’s actually Adverse Childhood Experiences.
A few links to studies on this topic:
One study that shows a connection between ACEs and long-term (negative) life effects: https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/about.html
Another meta-study shows a strong connection between ACEs and intimate partner violence: https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/E931CC81FDD035698C4E0CCBB44CE214/S0954579423000196a.pdf/adverse_childhood_experiences_and_intimate_partner_violence_a_metaanalysis.pdf
Childhood maltreatment and intimate partner violence victimization: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30537622/
There are honestly many more.
One important nuance: these studies show increased risk, not destiny. The association is real, but it does not mean someone with ACEs is doomed to have abusive adult relationships. And even if you do, you CAN break the cycle!
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