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The sense of ownership is one reason why abuse tends to…

“The sense of ownership is one reason why abuse tends to get worse as relationships get more serious. The more history and commitment that develop in the couple, the more the abuser comes to think of his partner as a prized object. Possessiveness is at the core of the abuser's mindset, the spring…” quote by Lundy Bancroft
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“The sense of ownership is one reason why abuse tends to get worse as relationships get more serious. The more history and commitment that develop in the couple, the more the abuser comes to think of his partner as a prized object. Possessiveness is at the core of the abuser's mindset, the spring from which all the other streams spout; on some level he feels that he owns you and therefore has the right to treat you as he sees fit.”

Lundy Bancroft

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Abusers view partners as possessions, intensifying abuse as relationships deepen.

In simple terms: Abusers see partners as objects, worsening abuse over time.

Key Takeaway

Recognize ownership language as a red flag.

Themes

abuse ownership relationships power dynamics

Mood

somber urgent

Type

warning educational

When to use this quote

  • counseling
  • relationship education
  • legal interventions
  • support groups

Key Concepts

psychology control attachment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does perceived ownership affect victim safety?
  • What interventions can disrupt possessive thinking?
A Different Perspective

Abusers may also rationalize behavior, making change difficult.

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