North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

True or False: Leaving the batterer can be the most dangerous time for a victim of domestic violence.

1. True

2. False

3. Only if the victim has a plan

4. Depends on the situation

The correct answer is: True

Leaving the batterer can indeed be the most dangerous time for a victim of domestic violence. This is due to several factors. When a victim attempts to leave, it can trigger increased aggression from the abuser, as they may feel a loss of control. The abuser may resort to violent behavior in an effort to maintain power over the victim and prevent them from leaving. This heightened danger is particularly pronounced if the abuser has previously exhibited lethal behavior, has access to weapons, or has made threats in response to the victim’s expression of leaving. Statistics and studies in the field of domestic violence support the assertion that many instances of fatal violence occur when a victim leaves or is attempting to leave the relationship. It underscores the importance of having a carefully considered safety plan when contemplating leaving an abusive situation. Victims are often advised to seek assistance from domestic violence shelters or specialized resources that can help them navigate this critical and risky time in their lives. In contrast, the other choices might convey a misunderstanding of the risks involved. Saying it is only dangerous with a plan or situational based downplays the consistent trend of increased danger during the leaving phase. Thus, the assertion that leaving the batterer can be the most dangerous time for a victim is a widely recognized truth