This week we cover parent-child relationships. For this Discussion you need to watch this video which covers the story of Ethan Couch, a Texas 16 year old who killed four people and injured nine others while speeding and driving drunk after stealing beer. He was eventually sentenced to two years in rehab (until he turned 18) followed by eight years of probation. Below are some more events that transpired after the video aired:
In 2015, after getting out of rehab, Ethan violated his probation by drinking alcohol
To avoid going to prison on a probation violation, his mother took him to Mexico to hide out; in an effort to not be identified, he grew a beard and dyed his hair
He was eventually caught in 2016 and extradited to Texas where he was sentenced to 2 years for probation violation
He was released in 2018 and had to wear an ankle monitor, for the next year
Given all of that, respond to the following questions:
What is your general reaction to the Affluenza defense? (50-100 words)
Describe one familial influence* that may have affected Ethan Couch’s development and behavior? (25-50 words)
Describe one sociocultural influence* that may have affected Ethan Couch’s development and behavior? (25-50 words)
