After a recent Conversation Café, Rhiannon Pineau, a survivor and advocate, shared an article about the Shark Cage® framework, developed by psychologist Ursula Benstead. This metaphorical model offers a lens through which women can understand and respond to abusive situations, emphasising the importance of personal boundaries and human rights.
The framework envisions life as an ocean filled with both friendly creatures and dangerous predators. The “shark cage” symbolises our personal boundaries, constructed from our understanding of rights and self-worth that protect us from harm. Each bar of the cage represents a specific right, such as the right not to be touched or shouted at.
What resonates deeply with me is the framework’s emphasis on empowerment without blame. It acknowledges that many women may have incomplete or damaged cages due to past traumas. It also reinforces that it’s never too late to rebuild and strengthen these protective barriers. wbsass.com.au. I’m all about focusing on what we do want, rather than spinning in drama spirals with a focus on what we don’t want. This idea speaks to me. When I sit back for a moment and think: What does empowerment without blame feel, look and sound like? It feels full of possibility, growth, a building of self-esteem and confidence. I like that.
The Shark Cage® framework also introduces the concept of an “alarm system,” helping individuals recognise and respond to boundary violations. By identifying “sharks” (abusers) and understanding their behaviours, women can make informed choices about their relationships.
This model aligns with the themes we’ve been exploring in our Conversation Cafés. It provides a tangible tool for survivors to reclaim their narratives, set boundaries, and foster healing.
For those interested in delving deeper into the Shark Cage® framework, here are some resources:
- Ursula Benstead’s official website: ursulabenstead.com.au
- The Shark Cage® Program for Young Women: thesharkcage.com
- Centre for Clinical Psychology’s blog by Jon Finch (December 2022): The Shark Cage Metaphor in Abusive Relationships
As we continue our journey through the Conversation Cafés, frameworks like the Shark Cage provide valuable perspectives and tools for understanding and healing. If you have additional frameworks that might be beneficial to this community of survivors, families, and allies who are committed to thriving and advocating for change, please let me know. You can reach me at connect@blueborage.com.au.
Thank you for being here.