Character analysis

Natasha

Natasha is 14 years old, in year 10 at school. She is a confident, independent, mature young lady who spends time with friends and has a strong relationship with mum. She has a clear understanding of mum and dad's conflict, has a good relationship with mum's new boyfriend, Tommy, and doesn't want to see dad, in support of mum. She has seen dad once since they split and doesn't want to see dad anymore because ‘of all the bad stuff he did to Mum’. She finds the conflict with her younger sister and brother difficult as she feels she must support them and none of them should see their dad.

Rebecca

Rebecca is 12 years old, in year 8 at school. She is very down and lacking in confidence, unhappy with the family situation and feels torn between her parents. She doesn't want to choose between them and would prefer it if they could sort out the family problems and be together again. She shows the characteristics of middle child syndrome, and there are reports from school of her becoming withdrawn and sad. Teachers suggested her speaking to a counsellor, but Rebecca is too scared as she knows her parents will be contacted about the situation. Rebecca is also having trouble sleeping at night and her friends have described her as ‘no fun anymore’. There is conflict with her older sister who supports mum and has closed dad out.

Andrew

Andrew is 11 years old, in year 7 at school. He is a shy, self-conscious boy. He is slightly overweight which resulted in him being bullied at primary school and he finds PE difficult. He has strong musical interests and plays the saxophone, he is also in the school chess club and appears to be settling into school well. Andrew has a strong relationship with his father partly due to his musical interests. He misses his dad greatly and would prefer to live with him if his sister Rebecca would move as well. He dislikes mum's new boyfriend, Tommy, as he feels he tries too hard and makes Andrew feel uncomfortable. Andrew finds it very difficult to discuss the problems with his sisters – particularly Natasha – and avoids talking about the situation.