The British teen-Forrest, is a spoiled only child, who lives between her …show more content…
Jan and Liesbeth Van Berkel strongly believe in trust and respect with their teenagers, along with demanding responsibility from their children. “Adapting to change depends on one’s ability to understand the other person’s perspective and to discover the meanings underlying one’s own actions, as well as those of other family members” (Shelley). Shortly after arriving at the Van Berkel’s home, Forrest and Daniel seem to have no problem destroying Amber’s room. The house guests decide to act like toddlers by throwing Amber’s belongings and undergarments all around her bedroom. They do apologize to Amber, but neither of the house guests seem to show remorse for their actions. The teens both agree to follow the Van Berkel’s rules.
The next morning, Forrest and Daniel go to school with other teens their age. There they answer questions and better explain their point of view, to the students. Surprisingly, the students are baffled with the British teens and their outlook on life. The students want to further their education, in order to obtain a good job. After school, the two work together to clean a hotel room, impressing the guy who oversees their work. Later, the issue arises that Forrest remove her fake nails. Not wanting to remove her nails, she ends up in a private room with a nail bar, to have them cut …show more content…
Jan Van Berkel begins communicating with Daniel, which triggers emotions when she brings up his dad. His anger seems to diminish after discussing some of his problems with Mrs. Van Berkel. However, to help motivate Daniel and ensure his positive change, he speaks with a former drug addict and thief. Ultimately, Daniel decides that when he returns home, he will get a job and help his mom out with bills, along with being a better role model for his younger sister.
Subsequently, Forrest’s transition is gradual and begins when she is forced to go out of the house without make-up. However, Jan Van Berkel allows Forrest to put make-up on her, which helps them better connect. Then, Forrest also helps at a learning disability center. From there, she escorts a young woman to the grocery store, and then to her apartment to assist in cleaning. Afterwards, they drop the groceries off and clean up the young woman’s apartment. Forrest then helps prepare a meal for 12 people at the center. The episode concludes as the week comes to an end. As the teens return home, they each apologize to their parents and explain their plans to change. Ultimately, from the teen’s experience with the Van Berkel family, their own families change from dysfunctional to more