While many may question a victim of domestic violence's willingness to simply walk away from an abusive relationship, a central Illinois domestic violence advocate is shedding some light on why it often isn't as easy as one might think. 

Asking why someone stays inadvertently places the burden on the victim instead of holding the abuser accountable for his actions. Andrea Kocher, Director of Services at Willow Tree Missions in Piatt County, points out that statistically, it takes an average of nine attempts for a victim to successfully escape an abuser. 

The danger spikes exponentially when a victim attempts to break away. According to Kocher, 70 percent of domestic violence murders occur immediately after the abused individual decides to leave. 

While every domestic violence case is unique, the core behaviors of abusive individuals remain highly predictable. Kocher emphasizes that abusers rely on tried-and-true tactics designed to establish total control and keep their partners in a state of constant turmoil.

Visit willowtreemissions.org for more information on their services or to talk to someone about your situation. You can also find Willow Tree Missions on Facebook. Kocher indicates Facebook is often seen as a safe way for victims to reach out to them because of the Facebook page's connection to the organization's thrift store.