Session 3 - Communication Quiz

Deirdre has four children with her ex-partner Niall, aged between five and fifteen. She and Niall split up three years ago. Niall’s behaviour towards Deirdre left her with anxiety and depression. Eileen is Niall’s new partner. They have a two-year-old son together and Eileen has a ten-year-old from a previous relationship. Eileen and Niall have been together for four years; they had an affair when Niall was still living with Deidre. Niall treats Eileen just like he treated Deirdre. He puts her down, is unpredictable and switches between kindness and threats. He’s stopped Eileen from seeing her family and friends, and has encouraged her to leave work. He now controls all their finances and makes Eileen beg him for money. Sexually, he has made her do things that hurt and humiliate her. Below are some statements that Deidre and Eileen may say to other people in their lives. Discuss whether you think the following statements are constructive ways of communicating about Niall.