The concept of coercive control has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly in the true crime genre. Coined by researcher Evan Stark, coercive control refers to a pattern of abusive behavior and manipulation used to dominate a partner, including isolation, humiliation, financial abuse, stalking, and gaslighting. While men are most often the abusers, this form of psychological abuse can affect anyone.
Several recent media offerings have delved into the devastating effects of coercive control. From podcasts to documentary films and series, these stories shed light on the insidious nature of this type of abuse and its lasting impact on victims.
One such podcast, produced by Tortoise Media, explores the intersection of coercive control and catfishing in the story of Kirat Assi, a woman whose life was upended by a deceptive online relationship. The podcast highlights the lack of legal recourse for victims of such manipulation and emphasizes the importance of recognizing the harm caused by coercive control.
In the documentary film “The Tinder Swindler,” viewers are introduced to the story of Shimon Hayut, a con man who used charm and deception to exploit women he met on Tinder. The film showcases the emotional toll of Hayut’s manipulations and the resilience of his victims in seeking justice.
A Netflix docuseries from 2022 delves into the chilling tale of Robert Hendy-Freegard, a man who used psychological tactics to exploit and harm multiple individuals. The series offers a harrowing look at the impact of coercive control and the lengths to which abusers will go to maintain power over their victims.
For those interested in a podcast format, “Dirty John” tells the true story of Debra Newell and her tumultuous relationship with John Meehan, a manipulative con artist. The podcast, based on investigative reporting, delves into the complexities of coercive control and the role of family dynamics in abusive relationships.
These media offerings serve as important reminders of the prevalence and devastating effects of coercive control. By shining a light on these stories, creators hope to raise awareness and encourage conversations about this form of abuse.
