NCJ Number
93510
Journal
Victimology Volume: 8 Issue: 3-4 Dated: (1983) Pages: 203-212
Date Published
1983
Length
10 pages
Annotation
On the basis of data collected during a two year participant observation study in a shelter for battered women, the experiences of women in violent relationships are analyzed.
Abstract
Using the typology developed by Sykes and Matza (1957) to analyze the 'techniques of neutralization' employed by delinquents, six techniques of rationalization used by battered women are discussed. These techniques include: appeal to the salvation ethic, denial of injury, denial of victimizer, denial of victimization, denial of options, and the appeal to higher loyalties. Each technique is discussed in light of the individual, interpersonal and socio-cultural forces that influence the manner in which battered victims interpret their situations. (Author abstract)