Which of the following is a barrier to leaving an abusive relationship?

• A. Economic dependence on the abuser
• B. Having a strong support system
• C. Abuser's use of non-violence
• D. Adequate access to resources

Answer: (A)

Economic dependence on the abuser creates a major barrier to leaving because it ties a person’s safety and basic needs to the partner who is abusive. When the abuser controls money, housing, transportation, and other essentials, the survivor risks financial ruin, homelessness, or losing kids’ care if they try to go. The fear of not being able to meet basic needs once they leave can make staying feel like the safer option, even when staying continues to put them in danger. Providing access to financial resources, safe housing, job support, and legal aid helps break this barrier and makes a safe separation possible.

Having a strong support system helps people exit abuse, so it’s not a barrier. The abuser’s use of non-violence isn’t a barrier either, since lack of violence doesn’t create the same practical obstacles to leaving. Adequate access to resources would usually facilitate leaving, not hinder it.