*Triggering*
http://www.youtube.com/...
(I posted a link as the embed doesn't appear to be working for this one)
I have not seen this show before, but as is typical, the BBC is far ahead of US Television in tackling difficult issues.
I believe the story line began in 2008. That December the program description was:
Despite EastEnders having a tradition of tackling difficult social issues, from domestic violence to HIV, and Brookside having addressed child sex abuse 15 years ago with the Jordaches, the BBC soap came under fire from those who felt it inappropriate for EastEnders to focus on the subject - or perhaps they didn't want reminding that most abuse happens in the home. Thankfully EastEnders persevered, and last night Whitney dropped her bombshell. Tonight, then, comes the detonation, and cracking performances from Shona McGarty as Whitney and Patsy Palmer as Bianca, who hurtles from obliviousness to belligerent disbelief to a devastated, cold comprehension
Thanks to the BBC and East Enders for pressing forward with this issue. We must talk about it.
While difficult to watch (I'm now going back to 2008 when the abuse started for Whitney at the hands of her mother, Bianca's fiance) I think a similar show in the US would be helpful to children who may be experiencing similar situations at home.
90% of sexual assaults are by someone they know
68% by a family member
Access is most easily gained within the four walls of our home.
I remember as a kid - hell, as an adult really, thinking I was the only one - that something must be wrong with me - that I deserved this - that I was bad, dirty, disgusting - I asked for it - it was my punishment for something I had done. Imagine, for a moment, if I happened across a show like this - where all of a sudden the veil was lifted. And not only did I realize at 9, 10, 11, 12 years old that I wasn't the only one, but that it was WRONG - it wasn't my fault - and that there was something I could do about it!
I remember as a kid seeing those after school specials - sort of PSA's for kids. We need THIS sort of PSA for them and for parents.
Anyway, I just stumbled across the series this morning and wanted to share with you guys. Additional episodes (earlier episodes) appear below the jump.
Grooming
Intimidation/Control
http://www.youtube.com/...
(I provided a link because this one doesn't seem to be appearing correctly.)
Telling - Being Called a Liar
Realizing She's telling the truth