The guarantee of safety in a battering relationship can never be based upon a promise from the perpetrator, no matter how heartfelt. Rather, it must be based upon the self-protective capability of the victim. Until the victim has developed a detailed and realistic contingency plan and has demonstrated her ability to carry it out, she remains in danger of repeated abuse.

~ Judith Lewis Herman

Judith Lewis Herman Abuse Abused Women Battered Women Batterers Battering Domestic Violence Perpetrator Promises Protection Refuge Safety Self Protection Survivor Victim Victimization Violence