Power and Control Wheel

The Power and Control Wheel explains the complex dynamics of Domestic Violence (Intimate Partner Violence).

The following video helps describe the concepts:

"Illustrations of the power and control wheel and the post-separation power and control wheel are particularly helpful tools in understanding the overall pattern of abusive and violent behaviors used by abusers to establish and maintain control over their partners both within and following a relationship. Very often, one or more violent incidents are accompanied by an array of these other types of abuse. They are less easily identified, yet firmly establish a pattern of intimidation and control in the relationship.

As the wheels illustrate, abuse is cyclical. There are periods of time where things may be calmer, but those times are followed by a buildup of tension and abuse, which usually results in the abuser peaking with intensified abuse. The cycle then often starts to repeat, commonly becoming more and more intense as time goes on. Each relationship is different and not every relationship follows the exact pattern. Some abusers may cycle rapidly, others over longer stretches of time. Regardless, abusers purposefully use numerous tactics of abuse to instill fear in the victim and maintain control over them."[NCADV]

The author is a survivor of Domestic Violence. Her latest book, Family Treasons, is a memoir that illustrates her experiences in poetry form.

Find out more about the Author at her Website and follow her on Twitter @JoanHuffmanMD.