This guide provides an in-depth exploration of the key themes, characters, and events in Dave Pelzer’s harrowing memoir, “A Child Called ‘It’.” We’ll delve into thought-provoking questions to help you understand the psychological complexities of the abuse Dave endured, as well as the lasting impact it had on his life.
- Why did Dave’s father never intervene in Dave’s abuse? How did this make Dave’s situation even worse?
Dave’s father’s inaction stemmed from a crippling fear of his wife. While he possessed affection for his son, his passive personality and inability to confront his wife left him powerless to stop the abuse. This passivity compounded Dave’s suffering. Not only did he endure the daily torment inflicted by his mother, but he also lost faith in his father as a protector. This dual betrayal, the failure of both parents, amplified Dave’s sense of isolation and helplessness.
Alt text: A somber portrait of a young Dave Pelzer, reflecting the pain and resilience described in “A Child Called ‘It’.”
- How did Dave’s mother employ fear politics in her home?
Dave’s mother masterfully manipulated fear to control her household. The anticipation of punishment often proved more agonizing than the punishments themselves. Dave lived in constant dread, unsure of what transgression might trigger his mother’s wrath and the severity of the consequences. This atmosphere of terror extended beyond Dave, effectively silencing his father and brothers. Fear of becoming the next target prevented them from intervening, creating a climate of complicity and isolating Dave further.
- How do spirituality, faith, and God figure into Dave’s life?
Initially, Dave clung to faith, hoping for divine intervention. As the abuse escalated, his faith wavered. He questioned God’s existence, reasoning that a benevolent God would not allow such suffering to continue. Despite this struggle, a flicker of hope remained. The memoir suggests that Dave never completely abandoned faith. His persistent prayers, even amidst despair, demonstrate a deep-seated belief in the possibility of escape, a belief that fueled his will to survive.
- Discuss the bystander effect and how it contributed to Dave’s ongoing abuse.
“A Child Called ‘It'” poignantly illustrates the bystander effect. Numerous adults in Dave’s life, including teachers and a neighbor named Shirley, suspected abuse but failed to intervene for years. Whether due to a lack of awareness of the extent of the abuse, a reluctance to intrude, or the assumption that someone else would take action, their inaction allowed the horror to persist. This highlights the devastating consequences of diffusion of responsibility and the importance of proactive intervention in suspected cases of child abuse.
Alt text: David Pelzer, author of “A Child Called ‘It'”, a survivor who transformed his traumatic childhood into a message of resilience and hope.
- Why is the Russian River significant?
The Russian River represents a stark contrast between Dave’s idyllic past and his abusive present. Before the abuse began, the river symbolized childhood innocence, happiness, and carefree joy. However, his mother tainted this cherished place when she took him there and subjected him to further abuse, effectively corrupting his fond memories and associations of safety and contentment. Despite this, Dave reclaims the river in adulthood, telling his son that it is still his favorite place, demonstrating the resilience of the human spirit and the power to reclaim joy even after trauma.
- Why does Dave love his baby brother Kevin so much?
Dave’s deep affection for Kevin stems from a profound sense of guilt and responsibility, instilled by his mother. She had falsely blamed Dave for causing potential birth defects in Kevin. Finding out that Kevin was born healthy brought immense relief and reassurance, proving that his mother’s accusations were not based on his actions but were part of her manipulative tactics of control and fear. His love for Kevin represents a desire to protect and nurture, a stark contrast to the abuse he endured.
- Does Dave ever explain what caused his mother to abuse him? What do you think her motive was?
Dave struggles to pinpoint a specific reason for his mother’s sudden shift from loving parent to abusive tormentor. While he attributes it to a combination of factors, including discipline, minor behavioral issues, and her short temper, he also hints at deeper underlying problems, such as alcoholism and potential mental illness. The ambiguity surrounding her motives underscores the complex and often inexplicable nature of abuse. Understanding the root cause remains elusive, highlighting the psychological damage inflicted on both the victim and the perpetrator.
Alt text: Cover art of “A Child Called ‘It'” depicting a young boy, symbolizing the struggles and survival depicted in Dave Pelzer’s memoir.
- Why did Pelzer choose to begin the memoir with the story of the end of his abuse?
Pelzer’s decision to begin with the end of his abuse, chronologically out of order, serves a crucial purpose: it offers readers a beacon of hope amidst the darkness. By revealing Dave’s eventual liberation, the author instills a sense of optimism, encouraging readers to persevere through the harrowing details of his suffering. This narrative choice underscores the importance of hope in survival and allows readers to appreciate the profound significance of Dave’s eventual freedom.
- How does the piece of driftwood in the epilogue symbolize Dave’s life?
The piece of driftwood in the epilogue acts as a powerful metaphor for Dave’s life. Like the driftwood tossed and turned by the relentless tide, Dave faced relentless forces that attempted to drag him down and pull him back. His struggle to reach the shore, symbolizing his freedom, mirrors the driftwood’s journey towards stability. The image represents resilience, perseverance, and the enduring quest for liberation from the currents of adversity.
- Why is Dave’s relationship with his son Stephen important?
Dave’s relationship with his son, Stephen, holds immense significance. Deprived of love and positive family experiences during his own childhood, Dave resolved to break the cycle of abuse and provide his son with the loving and nurturing environment he never had. Stephen serves as a powerful motivator, inspiring Dave to be the best father he can be and to create a family life founded on love, support, and understanding. His relationship with Stephen becomes a testament to the transformative power of healing and the capacity to create a better future.
