Something Was Wrong is intended for mature audiences.

Episodes discuss topics that can be triggering, such as emotional, physical, and sexual violence, suicide, and murder.

I am not a therapist or a doctor.

If you're in need of support, please visit something was wrong.com slash resources for a list of non-profit organizations that can help.

Some names have been changed for anonymity purposes.

Opinions expressed by guests on the show are their own,

and do not necessarily represent the views of myself or audio chuck.

Resources and source material are linked in the episode notes. Thank you so much

for listening. For those who haven't experienced interpersonal violence themselves, it can

sometimes be confusing as to why some victims stay in abusive relationships. The National Coalition

Against Domestic Violence reports that of victims' reasons for staying

with their abusers are extremely complex and, in most cases, are based on the reality that their

abuser will follow through with the threats they use to keep them trapped.

The abuser will hurt or kill them, or hurt or kill their kids, they'll win custody of the children, they will harm or kill them or hurt or kill their kids. They'll win custody of the children. They will harm

or kill pets or others. They will ruin their victim financially, and the list goes on.

The victim in violent relationships knows their abuser best and fully knows the extent to which they

will go to make sure they have and can maintain control over

their victim. The victim literally may not be able to safely escape or protect those they love.

A recent study of intimate partner homicides found that 20% of homicide victims were not the

domestic violence victims themselves, but family members, friends,

neighbors, persons who intervened, law enforcement responders, or bystanders.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline warns that abuse is about power and control.

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