Locate and evaluate, according to student-generated criteria, both sources of and information about violence and abuse in families and communities.

Discuss common definitions of “abuse” and “violence” and develop informed personal definitions of both.

Assess the impact of physical, emotional, spiritual, and sexual abuse on families and communities.

Determine that age does not protect one from abuse (e.g., parental, spousal, child, elder abuse).

Discuss the factors that are known to contribute to abuse (e.g., stress, exposure to violence, addictions, mental health issues, poverty).

Discuss the “cycle of abuse”.

Demonstrate ways to support those who may be experiencing abuse or living with an abusive family member.

Examine why victims of abuse sometimes keep the abuse a secret, and analyze the impact that these “secrets” have on self, family, and community.

Determine that a victim of violence/abuse is never at fault or to blame for the abuse.

Examine threats to personal safety and well-being at home, school, or in the community.

Research sources of support for and ways of protecting oneself and others from abuse.

Examine historical factors that may contribute to the disharmony within individuals, families, and communities.

Investigate sources of help for young people who behave in violent ways.

Investigate sources of help for an abused child, an abused peer, an abused parent/spouse, an abused grandparent/elder, or a family who has a mixture of violent behaviours.