Alpha Phi Gamma hosted a domestic violence discussion panel Monday in the Holmes Student Center.

On hand to present was Cynthia Folgate, community resources director at the Safe Passage family shelter.

The discussion was held in conjunction with Domestic Violence Week.

“This is our national philanthropy event, which we do each year,” said Stella Fuentes, junior English major and sorority president. “Each year, we work with Safe Passage and have a discussion panel.”

Folgate described the “Cycle of Violence,” which breaks down domestic violence into steps where anyone can see the symptoms.

The first stage is what is known as the “honeymoon stage,” where everything is going well between the couple and there aren’t any problems.

A “rise in tension” comes next, highlighted by small bickering between the couple about minor issues.

Third, an explosive incident takes place where the abuser uses emotional and physical violence to get across their point, Folgate said.

Finally, a period of calm occurs, and the victim hopes that it won’t happen again.

Another aspect of the cycle discussed by Folgate is the “seduction stage,” where the abuser tries to seduce the victim into staying in the relationship.

“This same cycle happens in so many relationships,” Folgate said.

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