Triangles of abuse: a model of maltreatment

Research and clinical evidence support the view that the perpetrator (P), victim (V), and observer (O), all contribute to child abuse and neglect. This paper describes a model in which they have a necessary part in precipitating and sustaining the maltreatment. It appears they form a triangle or triquetra which rotates with time and circumstance. The perpetrator of sexual assault often becomes the victim when he is imprisoned. The victim of physical abuse may become the perpetrator of physical abuse in the next generation. Within each P, V, and O there is also a triquetra which rotates and which will determine how that individual behaves in the next instance. Knowing the relative preponderance of P, V, or O within each individual can help predict possible future abuse. Since therapists often determine their intervention by the view of the situation they adopt, it is important for them to understand their principal orientation towards either the perpetrator, victim, or observer. The legal model of abuse emphasizes individual accountability by viewing people as they are solely responsible for their behavior. This article rather than diminishing the responsibility of any individual, emphasizes the collective responsibility of all involved.