Love: There are still times when the abuser is very loving.

Hope: Memories of happier times together gives the victim hope that things will improve.

Self Blame: The batterer may claim that their behavior is the vicitms fault because of something she said or did. The victim may begin to believe this.

Minimizing the abuse: The batterer may claim that their abusive behavior is "no big deal" and the victim may believe that.

Hopelessnes: The vicitm may believe that he/she will never be able to find someone better, fears of being alone and all relationships include abuse.

Financial: The victim may depend upon the man for the total support for self and the children and have no means to support themselve.

Gender Roles: The victim may have learned from family, religion or culture that men are suppose to be in charge and have a right to disipline their women.

Embarrasment: The victim may not want to admit what is going on because of fear and criticism.

Lack of Supportive Relationships: As a result of the abuser's pattern, the victim may have become isolated from family and friends.

Rescue Complex. The victim may be convinced he/she can fix, change or heal the abuser if he/she just loves him enough.

The link provided below will help you better understand why vicitms stay.

http://www.alternativestodv.org/aboutdv/whyvictimsstay.html