What typically occurs after the explosion phase in the cycle of domestic violence?

After the explosion phase in the cycle of domestic violence, it is common for a remorse phase to occur. This phase often involves the perpetrator expressing feelings of guilt and sorrow for their actions. They may apologize to the victim and promise that the violence will not happen again. This display of remorse can sometimes create confusion for the victim, as it may be followed by affectionate behavior or attempts to regain the victim's trust.

The remorse phase can foster a cycle of hope and denial for the victim, causing them to believe that the relationship can improve and that the violence was an isolated incident. This dynamic can reinforce the victim's emotional attachment to the abuser and increase their likelihood of staying in the relationship, despite the previous violence.

Understanding this cycle is crucial for recognizing patterns of abuse and the psychological dynamics involved in domestic violence situations. The other phases, such as pursuit or honeymoon, although relevant to the broader context, do not directly follow the explosion phase in the typical cycle described by theorists on domestic violence.