Child of Rage

Jill and Rob Tyler adopt two children, Catherine and Eric. While Eric is timid and sweet, Catherine initially appears similar but soon exhibits violent outbursts. The couple notices troubling behaviors that raise concerns about Catherine's mental state.

Catherine's violent tendencies escalate, including stabbing the family dog with a needle. Jill and Rob confront the seriousness of her behavior and seek answers from Doris, the children's caseworker, who cites confidentiality laws preventing disclosure of her past.

Jill and Rob take Catherine to a psychologist, who observes her acting convincingly normal, masking underlying issues. Despite this, her violent behavior continues to worry her adoptive parents, leading them to seek further help.

Jill notices bruises on Eric, who confesses that Catherine caused them. Catherine escalates her violence by smashing Eric's head on the basement floor, resulting in his emergency room visit. These incidents deepen the family's concern.

Doris admits that she rescued the children from an abusive home, revealing that their mother was hospitalized and their father was absent. She also reveals that Catherine’s violent behavior is rooted in past abuse, especially involving their older sister, Stephanie.

Jill and Doris locate Stephanie at a topless bar. Stephanie shares her harrowing story of sexual abuse by their father and how he shifted his attention to Catherine after she fought back. This trauma explains Catherine's aggressive behavior.

After Catherine cuts a classmate with glass, Doris informs Jill and Rob about her multiple foster placements. She recommends the book Kids Who Kill, which Jill believes describes Catherine’s condition accurately, emphasizing her attachment disorder.

Dr. Rosemary Myers examines Catherine and uses reverse psychology to get her to admit her violent acts. During a holding therapy session involving Jill, Rob, and Dr. Myers, Catherine reveals her pain and admits her desire to re-enact her violence, beginning her path toward healing.

Before returning home, a fire started by a disturbed child named Justin causes panic, leading to Catherine's attempted stabbing of Rob, which is narrowly avoided. The family prepares for at-home therapy sessions to continue Catherine’s treatment.

While conducting a holding therapy session at home, Catherine begins to cry, sharing her feelings with Jill. The emotional exchange signifies progress, culminating in her expressing love for her adoptive parents and a tearful embrace for resolution and hope.