Recognizing Abusive Relationships

Gr 9 Up—"I can't control my urges." "You made me do it." "I was born this way." "You deserve it." These are just some of the excuses those who abuse others may use. The program defines and gives concrete examples of different types of abuse, including physical, emotional/psychological, sexual, and neglect. Viewers are told that there is no excuse for abuse, that victims of abuse are not at fault no matter what the abuser may tell them, and that there is help and hope. Abuse may occur in family or dating situations and more than one type of abuse can exist at the same time. The message of this film is that no one deserves abuse or its devastating and often long-lasting side effects such as depression, anxiety, drug abuse, self-inflicted harm, violence against others, and attempted suicide. Stories and quotes from abuse victims provide the soundtrack as they are portrayed in shadowed profiles and vignettes. Although the narrators' and actors' Australian accents may distract some audiences, this is a sound resource for health or counselling curriculums.—Amanda Rollins, Northwest Village School, Plainville, CT