Ive been wondering what makes a woman stay in an unhealthy and abusive relationship? Reading on this and other boards, you see stories of abuse and neglect, heartache, broken dreams, and I always wonder, why dont they just leave? I can understand wanting to stay if there are kids. But Im talking about boyfriend/girlfriend relationships. What amazes me the most is how these same people, after they tell you about how neglectful and abusive thier men are, will say how these men are the world to them, the only thing that matters. I'm completely confused. Why are women attracted to abusive men? I hear how it has something to do with self-esteem, but my esteem is low, I wouldnt stay with someone abusive for a second. Are they attracted by some kind of animal instinct? Why dont they think they can find someone who would treat them decent? I read these stories and I just want to say GET OUT! But thats always the wrong thing to say. So how can you help someone who refuses to see the problem, that they are trying to make a relationship with someone who doesnt give a *^7% about them, or they wouldnt let them feel this way? It drives me nuts cause the relationships I have had, I always tried to be understanding, listening, caring, but that was weak I guess. It looks like women want tough guys, but then want to change them. Once the guy becomes soft, they arent tough enough anymore, so the women take a walk. If the guy stays tough, he's a jerk. I feel like a turkey at an NRA meeting.

"This too shall pass...."