Child of Rage

Child of Rage follows the story of disturbed child Beth Thomas, a six-year-old girl diagnosed with reactive attachment disorder resulting from severe abuse during her infancy. It presents Beth’s therapy sessions, revealing her disturbing thoughts and behaviors, including her desire to harm her family members and animals.

The film showcases Beth’s interactions with her therapist, where she candidly discusses her violent impulses and past actions. These sessions provide insight into the profound impact of early childhood trauma on emotional and behavioral development. Beth’s adoptive parents, a minister and his wife, also share their experiences of raising her and her younger brother John, both of whom were found neglected and abused by social services.

Throughout the documentary, Beth’s lack of empathy and emotional detachment are evident as she recounts horrifying stories of abuse and her own violent tendencies without displaying any apparent emotion. It highlights the extreme measures her adoptive family must take to ensure their safety, such as locking Beth in her room at night.

The film also covers Beth’s treatment journey, focusing on her experimental “attachment therapy” with therapist Connell Watkins. This controversial approach aims to help her access and process her emotions, ultimately leading to visible changes in her demeanor and emotional displays.

Beth’s story serves as a powerful case study on the effects of early childhood trauma and the potential for recovery with appropriate intervention.