This scene demonstrates the importance of introducing discussion about relationships, violence, and communication into the classroom. The peer educators find that the majority of students do not know what "healthy relationships" are, but they do know about unhealthy relationships. The storytelling begins, and the stage is set for students to share their personal stories, which are elaborated throughout the video.

This scene demonstrates the struggles of a young Latina who is in an abusive relationship and thinks that she might be pregnant. It highlights the struggles, isolation, and confusion experienced by many young girls.

Fact: 6 in 10 Latina girls become pregnant at least once as teens.¹

Key Message: Self-esteem and supportive friends are important factors in healthy relationships.

This scene demonstrates the subtle sexism that sometimes occurs in families. Sexism contributes to unhealthy relationships, even between a brother and a sister. The scene challenges these messages and traditional gender roles held within families.

Fact: Justifications for violence frequently evolve from gender norms--that is, social norms about the proper roles and responsibilities of men and women.²

Key Message: Creating awareness about gender roles is a vital strategy to shape behaviors of youth based on equality.

This scene demonstrates the acculturation stressors felt by a Latino youth who is struggling to communicate with his parents.

Fact: "[Hispanic/Latino] teens tend to acculturate more quickly than their parents, resulting in a cultural divide that may impede successful communication between parent and child."³

Key Message: Many Latino families experience conflicts that are deeper than generational divides. Some individuals may be operating on traditional cultural norms while others follow majority culture or values, and these clashes among family members cause tremendous stress within the family.

This scene demonstrates the complex lives of many young Latinos. Issues such as poverty, violence and intimidation at school, and living in single parent homes often lead youth to act violently or seek out violent friends.

Fact: In Minnesota, Chicano/Latino students were most likely [when compared to other racial/ethnic groups] to be threatened or injured with a weapon on school grounds, most likely to have property stolen or damaged, and more likely to skip school out of concern for their safety.⁴

Key Message: Parents who are trying to make ends meet, have little family support, and are unfamiliar with mainstream systems often struggle with how to help their children as teenagers. Youth living in these circumstances often seek out a place to belong--friends can often offer a sense of belonging.

This scene demonstrates the importance of youth talking with other youth about relationships. They see their role in addressing unhealthy relationships, and are motivated to action.

Fact: Research has established that peer tutoring and cross-age training arrangements are inexpensive and highly effective ways to build the skills of disadvantaged youth.⁵

Key Message: You can make a difference! Peer support and education are a great stimulus for other youth to speak to the issues that are important in their lives.