Octavius, I think they use the word 'brave' as there are so many people who put up with abuse for years. They start small, a few bruises here and there, (Like the ones some of you are so ready to dismiss) then slowly the abuse increases. Then all too often, too ashamed and afraid to leave, these people are beaten to death.
Rihanna is a celebrity and so she has the power to get her story noticed and bring attention to this problem unlike most victims. She should be praised, not questioned and mocked by people who don't think the beating was severe enough!