Author discusses the common myths and stereotypes about domestic violence

NPR's Michel Martin interviewed Leslie Morgan Steiner, author of the memoir 'Crazy Love' and a longtime domestic violence advocate, prompted by allegations against Ohio Congressman Max Miller from his ex-wife Emily Moreno, who says he scalded her, pushed her, and held a gun to her head. Miller has denied the allegations and noted he was never charged; Moreno's spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment.

Steiner explained that denial, recantation and appeasement are common survival tactics among abuse victims and are not proof an incident didn't happen. She also addressed why victims with resources and education, including herself, often cannot simply leave, citing the psychological grip of abusive relationships rather than external circumstances like poverty or children.

Steiner said public scrutiny of such cases, while uncomfortable, helps break the historical silence around domestic violence. A correction was later appended noting she was an adviser, not a board member, of the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

The full dispatch is available from the source below.