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CM . . . .
Volume V Number 5 . . . . October 30, 1998
As Love Taps dramatically shows, physically and emotionally
abusive relationships are not reserved for marriage but can be
found amongst dating adolescents. The brief video follows two
couples, with the major action involving Mark and Therese. As
viewers learn, the pair have just become a couple again after
having been separated for a period of time, the break having been
the result of Terese's initiative. Mark is very controlling of
Terese, and, when she does not do want he wants, he angrily
responds with escalating violence towards her. Following each
incident, Mark apologizes profusely, but his abusive behaviours
do not cease, and Terese finally takes the step of breaking up
with him permanently. In the second, and definitely minor,
scenario, it is Ben who is on the receiving end of his
girlfriend's nonstop putdowns. Eventually, Ben confronts Kelly
about her verbal abuse, which she calls "joking," and she agrees
to stop.
The scenarios will give teens lots to talk about, beginning with,
"Do you think Mark and Kelly will ever change their behaviours?"
Should discussion not be naturally forthcoming, the cassette
jacket provides a large number of "Discussion Questions" as well
as a half dozen suggested post-viewing "Activities." In
addition, the jacket provides a list of questions to help
individuals decide if they are in abusive or healthy
relationships.
The adolescent actors, a multi-racial mix, and their dialogue,
plus the settings, are quite credible, and teen audiences should
be engaged by the two scenarios presented. The video avoids a
simple right/wrong approach by, for example, muddying the
physical abuse issue by having Mark be the product of a
dysfunctional family. The video also subtly introduces elements
of peer pressure and its effect on teens' decisions. Adults are
completely absent.
Recommended.
Dave Jenkinson teaches courses in adolescent literature in the
Faculty of Education, University of Manitoba.
To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.
Copyright © the Manitoba Library Association.
Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice
is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without
permission.
Published by
TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR THIS ISSUE - OCTOBER 30, 1998.
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