Battered woman syndrome
Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
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| Battered woman syndrome | |
|---|---|
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| |
| Synonyms | N/A |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | N/A |
| Symptoms | Depression (mood), anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder |
| Complications | Chronic pain, substance abuse, suicide |
| Onset | |
| Duration | |
| Types | |
| Causes | Domestic violence |
| Risks | |
| Diagnosis | Clinical assessment |
| Differential diagnosis | Post-traumatic stress disorder, depression (mood), anxiety disorder |
| Prevention | |
| Treatment | Psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, support groups |
| Medication | Antidepressants, anxiolytics |
| Prognosis | |
| Frequency | |
| Deaths | |
Battered woman syndrome (BWS) is a psychological condition that can develop when a person experiences abuse, typically at the hands of an intimate partner. This condition is characterized by a cycle of abuse and learned helplessness, where the victim feels unable to escape the situation.
Definition[edit | edit source]
Battered woman syndrome is a subcategory of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It was first described in the 1970s by psychologist Lenore Walker, who identified a pattern of symptoms in women who had experienced prolonged physical or psychological abuse.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The symptoms of BWS can vary widely, but often include:
Causes[edit | edit source]
BWS is caused by repeated, severe forms of domestic violence. The abuser often uses a pattern of domination, control, and fear to keep the victim in the relationship.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for BWS often involves therapy and counseling, and may also include medication for associated conditions such as depression or anxiety. Support groups can also be beneficial.
Legal implications[edit | edit source]
In some legal cases, BWS has been used as a defense, with the argument that the victim's actions were a result of the syndrome. However, this is a controversial use of the diagnosis.
See also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
