Relationship Dynamics in Film and TV

Part of challenging harmful social norms about relationship violence is dissecting the messages we are sent every day, specifically in television, film, and books. Media can serve as a sort of social learning for young people, who may not be aware that the tropes they are seeing in media are toxic, problematic, or abusive.

Licensed therapist Jonathan Decker & filmmaker Alan Seawright analyze relationship dynamics in film and TV on their YouTube channel Cinema Therapy, and we love them!

We've compiled this list of videos for you to watch and think critically about the relationships you see in media. Leave a comment and let us know which is your favorite, or what surprised you!

Workplace Romance in The Office

See a diverse range of relationships, good, mediocre, and very bad via the show The Office.

Disney Relationship Dynamics

Witness what different relationships, healthy and unhealthy, look like in Disney movies.

The Notebook - Ally and Noah

Unhealthy behaviors aren't always blatantly obvious. In fact, they can often be disguised as romance or passion. Explore the interesting relationship dynamics in The Notebook.

The Addams Family - Morticia and Gomez

Where would we be if we didn't mention the GOAT of loving and supportive media relationships, Morticia and Gomez Addams?

The Incredibles - Helen & Bob Parr

See what healthy parenting looks like with Bob and Helen Parr in The Incredibles.

Financial Abuse in Crazy Rich Asians

There’s no better example of the financial aspect of domestic abuse than in Crazy Rich Asians. 

Mean Girls in

Mean Girls

Friend abuse is real, and it’s best dressed in the movie Mean Girls. 

Everything, Everywhere,

All at Once

Family dynamics got you confused? Get even more confused by Everything, Everywhere, All at Once. 

What's your favorite movie? Let us know in the comments!