The Steve Wilkos Show Season 6 Episode 109 If I Don't Hit Her, She Doesn't Listen
- April 23, 2013
If I Don't Hit Her, She Doesn't Listen is the title of the season 6 episode 109 of The Steve Wilkos Show. This episode features a woman named Sandra, who has been accused of abusing her daughter. Sandra is joined on the stage by her daughter Jennifer, who has come to confront her mother about the abuse she suffered growing up.
Jennifer tells Steve and the audience that her mother was physically and emotionally abusive throughout her childhood. Sandra denies these allegations and insists that she only hit Jennifer when she misbehaved. Jennifer explains that her mother's abuse was so severe that it has had a lasting impact on her life, and she has struggled with addiction and mental health issues as a result.
Sandra's husband and Jennifer's stepfather, Jim, is also on the stage. Jim admits that he witnessed Sandra's abuse of Jennifer but that he didn't do anything to stop it because he was afraid of Sandra's temper. Jim also reveals that he has been abusive to Sandra in the past and that he has hit her during arguments.
Steve tries to get to the root of Sandra's behavior and asks her about her own childhood. Sandra reveals that her own mother was physically abusive to her and that she was beaten regularly as a child. Sandra insists that she only hit Jennifer when she misbehaved and that she was trying to discipline her, not hurt her.
Steve brings out Dr. Laura Berman, a therapist, to help Sandra and Jennifer work through their issues. Dr. Berman talks to Jennifer about the impact that her mother's abuse has had on her life and helps her understand that she is not to blame for what happened to her. Dr. Berman also helps Sandra understand that her behavior was not acceptable and helps her realize that she needs to take responsibility for her actions.
The episode ends with Sandra and Jennifer agreeing to work on their relationship, and Sandra promising to get help for her anger issues. Jim also agrees to get help for his own abusive behavior.
Overall, If I Don't Hit Her, She Doesn't Listen is a powerful episode of The Steve Wilkos Show that explores the serious issue of domestic violence and abuse. The episode is both emotional and enlightening, as Sandra and Jennifer work through their issues and take steps towards healing and forgiveness. Dr. Berman's expertise is invaluable in helping the family members understand the root of their behaviors and work towards positive change. The episode shows the importance of addressing domestic violence and abuse and offers hope for those who may be in similar situations.