What would you do if your friend’s girlfriend tried to restrict what he does?
Before you begin (trigger warning)
While discussing gender-based violence (GBV) can be important for healing and raising awareness, it's also essential to protect yourself and be mindful of personal triggers. Triggers can be experiences that cause a person to recall a traumatic event. For example, graphic images of violence might be triggering for some people. If anything here triggers you, it's okay to step back and focus on your safety and well-being. Seek out resources if needed, or try self-care strategies (PDF) like exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones to feel grounded and in control.
Scenario 3
Read the following scenario and consider whether this would be GBV. Then, respond with what you would do in this situation.
Your friend told you he met a girl at the gym, and they really felt a connection.
She supported him through a tough time and was very protective.
She has started trying to keep him from hanging out with you and your other friends because she’s worried he will cheat on her. Her friends say it’s "just the way she is."
Scenario 3 complete
Well done! You’ve completed Scenario 3: Controlling partner. You now have a clearer understanding of healthy relationships and controlling behaviour. You also know how you can respond if a friend shares a similar situation
It’s important to note that acts of GBV like this can be amplified over time, leading to other forms of GBV.
Remember, these three steps are essential in addressing instances of GBV.
