Using Coercion and Threats
Mickey does not leave Francine alone and continues to bug her about getting married claiming it would destroy him if she did not.
Using Economic Abuse
Fran cannot get welfare without her husband’s permission unless she pays a fee.
Mickey will not let her work or have any money.
Using Male Privilege
Mickey tells her to take off an outfit then get him a beer.
He takes possession of Fran as if she was an object and not a person.
Using Children
Children need their father. It is wrong to keep them from him.
They should be a family.
Minimizing, Denying and Blaming
When Fran says no at the beginning of the movie and Mickey replies it is okay because he has done it before and knows what he is doing thus minimizing the seriousness of the situation and the fact Fran clearly does not want to have sex.
Mickey blames her for making him look like a fool in front of his family.
Using Isolation
Mickey gets mad and strikes Fran when he thinks she is looking at another man.
Mickey tells Fran not to go into town without him.
Using Emotional Abuse
Fran feels that it is her fault Mickey acts violently because she is not a good wife.
Mickey calls her names like bitch.
Using Intimidation
Mickey smashes things, hits Fran leaving her bruised, and has cut her face.
Mickey grabs Fran and yells at her.
