Myths and Facts
True or False — Domestic violence only happens in romantic relationships.
What is False? It can occur in families, friendships, and even between roommates.
This pop star publicly shared her story after surviving domestic abuse from Chris Brown in 2009.
Who is Rihanna?
This 2023 film starring Zendaya and Mike Faist follows a tennis player caught in a manipulative love triangle where control and jealousy take center court.
What is “Challengers”?
This 2010 collaboration between Eminem and Rihanna explores the toxic push-and-pull of love and violence in a destructive relationship.
What is “Love the Way You Lie”?
Your friend’s partner always wants to know where they are, checks their phone, and calls it “just being protective.” What’s the red flag?
What is controlling or monitoring behavior (a sign of abuse)?
True or False — If the abuse isn’t physical, it’s not serious.
What is False? Emotional, verbal, and financial abuse can be just as damaging.
This singer of “Good 4 U” has discussed the emotional manipulation and gaslighting she experienced in past relationships.
Who is Olivia Rodrigo?
This Netflix miniseries stars Margaret Qualley as a young mother leaving an emotionally abusive relationship while working as a cleaner to survive.
What is “MAID”?
In this 2023 chart-topper, Olivia Rodrigo uses the metaphor of fame and betrayal to reference emotional manipulation and gaslighting.
What is “Vampire”?
Someone tells you they think their partner’s anger is “their fault.” What’s a helpful response?
What is reminding them it’s never their fault and offering to help them find support?
This term describes when someone repeatedly texts, calls, or tracks their partner’s location to control them.
What is digital abuse?
This Euphoria actress became a vocal advocate for domestic violence awareness after surviving abuse as a teenager.
Who is Alexa Demie or Who is Zendaya? (either works if you use real-life advocacy info; Zendaya has spoken about relationship red flags).
This 2023 Prime Video film starring Jennifer Lopez features a mother who’s been hunted by her abusive ex for years and must fight to protect her daughter.
What is “The Mother”?
This 2023 hit by SZA explores toxic relationships, jealousy, and power imbalances with the lyric “I might kill my ex.”
What is “Kill Bill”?
You notice a classmate’s partner constantly interrupts or criticizes them in public. What’s one safe way to respond?
What is checking in privately, expressing concern, and sharing campus resources?
Nearly what percentage of college students report experiencing dating violence or abuse?
What is 20–25%? (about 1 in 4).
This Barbie and Suicide Squad star supported campaigns for relationship abuse awareness in Australia.
Who is Margot Robbie?
This 2022 psychological film starring Florence Pugh explores a controlling 1950s community where women are trapped under male domination.
What is “Don’t Worry Darling”?
This 2024 breakup anthem by Tate McRae describes losing confidence and identity in a manipulative relationship.
What is “Greedy”?
A friend confides in you about being hurt at home but begs you not to tell anyone. What should you do first?
What is ensure their safety, listen, and connect them with confidential support (like a counselor or hotline)?
Name one reason victims often stay in abusive relationships.
What is fear, financial dependence, love, or concern for children/safety?
This actress from Big Little Lies and Aquaman worked with the UN and global organizations to advocate against gender-based violence.
Who is Nicole Kidman?
This 2024 film starring Blake Lively (based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel) follows Lily Bloom as she realizes her husband’s love has turned controlling and violent.
What is “It Ends With Us”?
This 2024 viral hit by Billie Eilish speaks to reclaiming confidence after being gaslit and disrespected by an ex.
What is “Lunch”?
Someone you know is in an abusive relationship and you want to help — what’s something you should not do?
What is confronting the abuser or forcing the victim to leave? It can increase danger.