Coercive Control Storyline in Emmerdale

[RabbitsRock]

I hadn’t watched Emmerdale for years but started again when the Tom & Belle situation was emerging - I think it’s very well done. Makes for uncomfortable viewing at times but it’s good to highlight what can go on behind closed doors. I can’t find much info on James Chase, who plays Tom - it would be good to think he’s a nice bloke in real life as he can be so nasty onscreen! What do you guys think of how coercive control is shown here?

I think it’s been well researched, very believable, I’ve experienced some of this myself and it sends chill down my spine. I’m looking forward to him being found out that’s for sure.

Anyone else?

It's a great storyline. Tom holding Belle's hand under the hot tap and punching her in the stomach was a hard watch and to see him slowly isolating her from her support network makes me want to shout at the telly. Even the poor dog has been drugged in his pursuit to manipulate Belle into staying with him. What a rotter!

I was in a very controlling marriage and this is probably the most realistic portrayal of that kind of relationship that I have seen done by a soap, Tom reminds me so much of my ex, I find it very hard to watch and I've had to turn over a few times, but think this kind of storyline needs to be shown

Sorry to hear that Lovewine1975

I’m an Emmerdale fan but currently finding it a difficult watch . I think the coercive control has been well researched and it’s authentic. I didn’t experience the physical abuse but pretty much everything else portrayed went on in my marriage. It’s decades ago but it has stirred up some very unpleasant memories for me.

The Mr Nice Guy act in front of friends and family then turning on me as soon as we got home. Completely false accusations and suspicions. Trying to control the time I’d have with close family or friends. Did his best to isolate me from everyone. I find it hard to believe looking back now that I did just like Belle and didn’t confide in anyone. I suffered in silence.

Then my parents and siblings began to suspect something was amiss and the shit hit the fan. I only found the courage at that point to stand up to him and tbh I think it shocked him. He packed his bags and went home to mummy. A month later he decided he would forgive me! He decided he want to return home and I told him where to go.