Which of Deanna's statements most likely indicates that she is experiencing 'battered woman's syndrome'?

• A. I am planning to leave him soon because I know I deserve better.
• B. I feel like everything that goes wrong is my fault, and I deserve the way he treats me.
• C. I think our relationship is just going through a rough patch, but it will improve.
• D. We argue sometimes, but he always apologizes and things get better.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that 'battered woman's syndrome' is a psychological condition that can develop in victims of consistent and severe domestic abuse, characterized by feelings of helplessness, low self-esteem, and self-blame.
2. Identify key emotional and cognitive symptoms associated with battered woman's syndrome, such as believing the abuse is their fault, feeling trapped, and accepting the abuser's behavior as deserved.
3. Analyze each of Deanna's statements to see which one reflects these symptoms:
4. Focus on the statement where Deanna says, 'I feel like everything that goes wrong is my fault, and I deserve the way he treats me,' as it directly shows self-blame and acceptance of abuse, which are hallmark signs of battered woman's syndrome.
5. Conclude that this statement most likely indicates Deanna is experiencing battered woman's syndrome because it aligns with the psychological patterns typical of this condition.