until someone has lived in those shoes there is no way to understand it. the person being abused is beaten down thinking they are no good or will never find anyone else that will love them. yes I have been there and yes I fought back with all my might at times. I defended myself. finally one day I got really sick and tired of it and found a way out. honey trust me it is doing the kids no good to continue in this lifestyle. kids learn bad behavior from parents and boys tend to think it is ok to hit women. same for girls. they see dad hit mama and mama hit daddy and they will contiue that for their lives. please get out asap. I understand you need to finish your finals. make your plan now and stick with it hon. my thoughts are with you and the kids right now.