Although stress is a commonly used rationale for abuse, this is quite simply not the case. Stress does not cause abuse. We all experience stress however, the majority of us do not hurt others during these times. Abusers who state they are feeling stressed don’t hit their boss, the Police or the neighbour. They do however, choose to victimise family members who have less power. This use of power and control is a choice that can be controlled quite effectively in the public arena. As a result, it is not unreasonable to expect that person to make the same choice to not use power and control in the home.
