Hidden violence
In romantic relationships, it is normal to have conflict and disagreements from time to time. However, it can be difficult to identify problematic behaviors when these situations arise. That is why Les 3 sex* launched Do you recognize yourself?, an awareness campaign (available in French only) that targets the more subtle violences and harmful reactions that can go unnoticed in romantic relationships.
Helpful videos
The awareness campaign presents a series of short videos, roughly two to three minutes each, that cover a range of topics such as slut shaming, transphobia, forced coming out, biphobia, financial abuse, jealousy, and control. To point out harmful behaviors and reactions, each video features a person having several adverse reactions to the same dispute with their partner. After a text segment that asks the viewer if they recognize themselves, the videos conclude with a positive and healthy response to the dispute. Below each video is additional information about the chosen topic and related external resources.
While these videos feature diverse couples played by actors and actresses from sexual and ethnic minorities, the themes and situations can be applied to heteronormative couples.
Spotlight on financial abuse
Financial abuse, defined by the Government of Canada as a “form of abuse where a person has control over another person’s access to economic resources” [Government of Canada, 2019], tends to impact women in romantic relationships and leads to a loss of financial autonomy and increased dependence on their partner. Because of this, it is harder for them to leave an abusive relationship.
To better understand this issue, one of the campaign videos focuses on a couple experiencing financial tensions. After one of the partners returns from a night of frivolous spending, the other partner expresses their frustration in the ensuing scenarios with sarcastic remarks, insults, and threats. The video not only shows how financial abuse can take on an indirect and insidious form, but also shows the importance of adopting nonviolent behaviors to better communicate sensitive matters.
If you would like to learn more about financial abuse and its impact on girls and women, the YWCA Montreal invites you to consult its socioeconomic theme on the Violence Free platform. The available resources on this platform aim to raise awareness and prevent sexual and gender-based violence.
Who are Les 3 sex*?
Les 3 sex* is a charitable organization based in Montreal that campaigns and fights for the sexual rights and health of women and folks of gender and sexual diversity. With a focus on outreach, awareness, and educational projects, the organization’s objectives are:
- Promote sex education based on co-constructed, evidence-based knowledge to develop critical thinking skills.
- Positively transform harmful perceptions of women and people of sexual and gender diversity.
- Deconstruct stereotypes that can lead to violent behavior and promote healthy relationships.
- Influencing public policy on sexual health and rights.
