Isn't that insulting a symptom of battered wife syndrome? These insults are very common in teenage relationships, too.

It's common in immature relationships because the behavior is immature. Once a person is of the age of majority, it is their responsibility to end negative or immature behaviors, as best they can. Instead, we live in a culture that celebrates debauchery, apathy and ignorance.

"mate retention"....That's weird; what will they think of next?

I've had some experience with this as my precious daughter married an insulter and a control freak. They want power. They are immature, weak, frightened and extremely insecure. When he's remorseful, he claims that he's afraid of losing her. Hogwash!! Insult me intentionally and/or on a regular basis, I'd be gone. That is not love no matter how much the person may claim otherwise.

Jatfla, very genuinely, my sympathies to your daughter. I cannot imagine how women manage to endure such men. The weird thing about it is, it seems, that many of them look for it or something close to it in the "bad boy" stereotype.

Bartending....I take it "genuinely". I have been reading about the very thing you've mentioned.

He was her high-school sweetheart and from a very troubled home life. There is compassion and sympathy bound up in this, along with a confidence that she can "help".

I think some women are drawn to these men because of this and a nurturing complex. But it's beyond me.

I can see young and immature-thinking girls being drawn to the "bad boy" image, but after a few experiences, wiser women wise up.