What may happen to minor incidents during the tension building phase?

During the tension building phase, minor incidents are often minimized by the woman and may be internalized as her fault. This phase is characterized by a buildup of stress and strain in the relationship, leading to an environment of fear or anxiety. The individual experiencing the abuse may rationalize or dismiss these minor incidents, believing they can prevent escalation by adjusting their own behavior, which is a common response in abusive dynamics. This minimization serves to maintain peace and avoid further conflict, making it difficult for the individual to recognize the severity of the situation or seek help.

The other scenarios, while they could occur in different contexts, do not reflect the typical psychological responses observed during the tension building phase. For instance, wanting to report issues to authorities or discussing them in therapy represents a proactive approach that may not be possible in this phase characterized by fear and denial. Instead, the individual may internalize blame rather than seek external support.