Most abuse victims are women. All forms of abuse usually recur and become increasingly frequent and severe over time unless outside intervention occurs. In addition, the abuse typically continues and escalates after the breakup of the relationship. Abusers look and act normal, while victims may either look hysterical or act lovingly toward the abuser. Abusers come from all socioeconomic backgrounds, races, religions, personality types, and family and educational backgrounds. Children experience long-term emotional disturbance and show stress-related physical symptoms as a result of women abuse involving their parents. Abuse intimidates the victim and reduces her ability to represent or even identify her interests. Thus, battered women's advocates and justice officials have come to realize that battering will stop only when batterers are held for their actions through legal sanctions.