The Abuse and Violence Module focuses on defining abuse and violence as well as dispelling myths and stereotypes about abuse. It is important to help youth recognize that most abuse and violence happens under a veil of secrecy with unhealthy power dynamics. Perpetrators of abuse may use a variety of tactics to gain control in abusive relationships. In this module, youth will learn about different types of abuse and myths around abusive relationships as well as how unhealthy power dynamics underlie abusive relationships.  The importance of getting help when the youth themselves or a friend is in an abusive relationship will also be reviewed.

Big Messages:

• Perpetrators are responsible for the abuse, not victims
• Perpetrators use a variety of tactics to gain control in abusive relationships
• Most abuse and violence occurs under a veil of secrecy
  

Learning Goals:

Increase knowledge about abuse and violence

• Increase knowledge of prevalent myths and stereotypes about abuse
• Define abuse, violence, and types of harm in a variety of relationships (peer, family, community, online)
• Identify how secrecy and other tricks are used to manipulate and keep abuse hidden
• Secrecy is often used in abusive relationship to build a trusting relationship with the victim

What The Evidence Says

Getting help for oneself or for another when experiencing abuse is critical to the prevention and intervention of abuse. It is important for youth to explore and understand the impact different types of abuse have and to dispel any misconceptions or stereotypes around what an abusive relationship looks like (e.g., only physical abuse is considered “real” abuse, etc.). Abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, neglect, and/or any combination of these different types. All types of abuse have severe negative consequences on an individual’s well-being.

Furthermore, it is important for youth to learn about the tactics perpetrators use to sustain an abusive relationship. Perpetrators generally have children/youth maintain secrecy about the abuse (Colton, et al., 2010; Craven, et al., 2006; 2006; Eliot, et al., 1995); Hershkowitz, et al., 2007; Kogan, 2004; McAlinden). Because the perpetrator often establishes a close personal relationship with the victim, the child/youth may more readily agree to keep the secret of abuse due to a sense of attachment. The perpetrator may also use a number of manipulative tactics to maintain secrecy. For example, they may offer the victim rewards for not telling. They may also indirectly threaten the victim by telling them that telling or getting help would get both the victim and perpetrator into trouble. More direct threats could involve anger or physical force.

Note to Facilitator:

The facilitator has a legal obligation to report suspicions of child abuse to a child protection agency (in the case of Ontario, the Children’s Aid Society (CAS)). Please review over the information provided around disclosure and the reporting process.

Activities

Myth or Fact?
Responding to Persuasion and Pressure
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