The Outlook Podcast Archive - My abuser used an alien plot to brainwash me

Download My abuser used an alien plot to brainwash me

Warning: This programme contains descriptions of mental and sexual abuse which you may find distressing.

In the 1970s child sexual abuse was rarely talked about and for some people, barely understood. So when a trusted member of the community called Bob Berchtold inveigled himself into the Broberg family's lives, becoming like a second father to their three girls, nothing seemed out of place. Berchtold went on to kidnap 12-year-old Jan Broberg, twice, brainwashing her with an elaborate conspiracy that aliens were in charge and the world would end unless she had a baby with him. Decades on, Jan and her mother Mary Ann talk frankly to Jo Fidgen about how the abuser fooled the whole family - and how they eventually rebuilt their lives.

This interview contains themes of child sexual abuse which may be difficult and triggering to hear.

Details of organisations offering information and support for victims of child sexual abuse are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline

Any comments please email us on outlook@bbc.com

Presenter: Jo Fidgen
Producer: Sophie Eastaugh

Picture: Jan Broberg as a child with her abuser Bob Berchtold
Credit: Courtesy Jan Broberg

Published on Tuesday, 26th January 2021.

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