Which sequence correctly describes the three phases of the cycle of violence?

Which sequence correctly describes the three phases of the cycle of violence?

• A. Honeymoon, Tension, Explosion
• B. Explosion, Honeymoon, Tension
• C. Tension, Explosion, Honeymoon
• D. Tension, Honeymoon, Explosion

Answer: (C)

Understanding the order of the three phases reveals how this cycle tends to unfold. It begins with a tension-building phase where stress, fear, and controlling behavior escalate. This builds toward an explosive, abusive incident—the peak of violence. Afterward comes the honeymoon phase, during which the abuser may apologize, minimize harm, or promise to change, creating a deceptive calm. That calm can make the victim hopeful and more likely to stay, even as the tension starts to rise again and the cycle repeats. Because the calm follows the violence and then tension steadily builds again, the correct sequence is Tension, Explosion, Honeymoon.

Understanding the order of the three phases reveals how this cycle tends to unfold. It begins with a tension-building phase where stress, fear, and controlling behavior escalate. This builds toward an explosive, abusive incident—the peak of violence. Afterward comes the honeymoon phase, during which the abuser may apologize, minimize harm, or promise to change, creating a deceptive calm. That calm can make the victim hopeful and more likely to stay, even as the tension starts to rise again and the cycle repeats. Because the calm follows the violence and then tension steadily builds again, the correct sequence is Tension, Explosion, Honeymoon.