Reading Log: Friendswood Discussion Question #1

1. Through your new understanding of Positive Accountability, discuss the way in which Dex applies it to his life. Please focus your discussion on his accountability to Willa Lambert.
   

   

Positive Accountability emphasizes the constructive, positive aspects of taking accountability for one’s actions. Positive Accountability involves two specific behaviors. The first one is “To thoughtfully acknowledge an error, your own or another person’s, to and consider how to repair it, if necessary.” The second behavior is “To express an emotion, or a need, without using criticism or accusation, to avoid triggering negative emotions.” The video below explains what exactly accountability is, and why it is so important.

In Friendswood, Dex utilizes both positive accountability behaviors. Dex acknowledges that he played a role in Willa’s rape by not doing anything to stop the rape while he was at the party. During the party, Dex heard a rumor that Willa was upstairs and unconscious, but instead of going to help her, he left the party immediately. As a result of this, Dex experiences intense feelings of guilt. So, he attempts to repair his error by going to the police and filing a report. He tells a police officer about the events of the party and hopes that the officer will bring Willa’s rapists to justice. In addition, Dex encourages Willa to talk to the police herself. He expresses that he will fully support Willa if she chooses to go to the police. Dex explains to Willa that, at the party, one of the guys “put something in your drink” (Steinke 305). Willa previously had no idea that she was drugged in addition to being raped. Willa responds by getting upset and walking away, but it is clear that Dex’s intentions were good. Even before this, Dex attempts to alleviate his guilt and take accountability for his actions at the party by befriending Willa when no one else will. Every other student at school avoids her after her rape, but Dex is unconditionally kind and accepting of her.