Which feeling is commonly experienced by victims?

• A. Feelings of guilt about violence, the children, etc.
• B. Feelings of jealousy
• C. Feelings of empowerment
• D. Feelings of contentment

Answer: (A)

Victims of violence commonly experience guilt and self-blame. People in these situations often worry that they did something to provoke the violence, or that they could have prevented it or protected others such as their children. This sense of responsibility is fueled by societal messages that victims are somehow at fault and by the dynamics of abuse that can make the situation feel confusing and inescapable. Because of this, guilt about the violence and concern for the children are common emotional responses.

Jealousy isn’t typically a direct result of victimization, and empowerment or contentment aren’t the usual feelings felt during or after ongoing abuse. Empowerment may come later in the healing process when seeking safety and support, while contentment is unlikely amid fear, distress, and uncertainty.