What might victims feel during the tension-building phase of violence?

During the tension-building phase of violence, victims often experience feelings of fear and anxiety. This phase is characterized by escalating tension between the perpetrator and the victim, leading to an environment where the victim feels unsafe and uncertain. This heightened sense of anxiety can stem from observing the perpetrator's unpredictable behavior, leading to an acute awareness of potential impending violence.

The feelings of fear and anxiety are closely tied to the victim's instinct for self-preservation and the desire to avoid conflict. Victims may sense that something is wrong and that the situation could escalate, which triggers these emotional responses. Understanding this phase is crucial in determining the dynamics of abusive relationships and recognizing the psychological impacts on victims.