Abusive relationships- EmilyC

I think the overarching problem in this book is the cycle of abusive relationships.  Charlie's sister was slapped by her boyfriend,  yet she puts on the persona of being a strong feminist (82).  She strongly condemns sororities, fraternities, and cheerleading, yet she stays with her abusive boyfriend.  Although we do not know much about Aunt Helen, we know she was in many abusive relationships and that Aunt Helen and Charlie's mom were hit by their father (90).  Charlie's father, grandmother, and aunt were abused by Charlie's  grandmother's new husband (86).  Charlie then describes the cycle of abusive relationships his family goes through.  His grandmother was abused by her husband and then raised a daughter who was abused by her spouse.  I think this cycle shapes Charlie and makes him an innocent and docile teenager. He is always cautious of his friend's feelings, especially Sam's feelings.  I hope that Charlie learns that there are healthy relationships and that he never makes the mistakes that his family made.