The Woodsman

The movie The Woodsman stars, Kevin Bacon who is released from prison after serving twelve years for child molestation.  Bacon’s character, Walter faces many challenges as he attempts to adjust to his life after prison.  Walter is faced with a multiple high risk factors that put him in danger of relapsing.  Relapse prevention can be challenging and requires letting go of self-destructive behaviors and learning healthy coping skills to avoid relapse.

 

Walter’s first and most obvious temptation is his apartment is next to a school, he responds to this temptation by watching the children out of his window. He utilizes the process of journaling as a healthy coping skill. He is able to express his thoughts on paper that he may never be able to share with anyone else.  Walter lacks a nurturing support system which increases his risk for relapse. Walter is again at a high risk for relapse because his friends and family have abandoned him.  Walter is also treated with talked down to and belittled by the police. Walter often stated in the movie, he wanted to “be normal” these statements may reflect that Walter has a low self-esteem increasing the probability of self-destructive thinking.  For example, When Walter feels judged by others he places himself in greater jeopardy of relapsing by selecting a victim and following her to the park. He then proceeds to groom her. Walter is obviously stressed when he leaves his place of employment and goes to the park. This is an example of how when people are stressed they revert back to their negative coping unless they have learnt and implemented   healthy coping skills.  In order to decrease his threats of relapse a healthy coping strategy for Walter would be to find a support group.

 A classic theme seen in relapse is the unhealthy thinking and minimizing the magnitude of the offense.  Walter increases his risk for reverting back to his old behavior by justifying his actions. In the move he tells Vicki, “It’s not what you think , I never hurt them, never. Complete honesty is essential. In the book 12 Stupid Things that Mess Up Recovery, Allen Berger, Ph.D. elaborates that to develop a strong recovery one must discuss even the most difficult topic and let go of secrets.

 Walter also had some positive and supportive factors after his release from prison that can decrease the be instrumental in revering relapse.  For instance he has his own living accommodation and employment, which adds to his impendence and self worth. He also attended therapy and even though he may have appeared angry initially it was evident that he later implemented some of the skills suggested by his therapist. Finally opening up to Vicky and developing an adult relationship was a step forward in a positive direction.

 The key messages in this film can be applied to anyone facing recovery and potential for relapse.   The movie emphasized that everyone needs to be treated with respect, have key nonjudgmental supports. Continuing therapy and learning new coping skills are also essential.  Keeping in mind that a persons behavior is separate from the person was there  any point in the movie in which you had empathy for Walter?