I think i would be hypocritical if I complain too much about how distrubing that chapter was... given some of mine. And I don't want anyone to get the wrong impressions about...'disturbing' chapters. As Riley said real life can be disturbing. And although we have to balance gritty reality against readability it is necessary to put it in there sometimes. I know I do.
There are disturbing scenes in all my stories I think and I always feel... although others might not agree... that they are absolutely necessary to throw a light on a particular part of the plot, usually the things that come after. I am assuming that is the case here... although it was quite long and detailed
As far as schooling is concerned I remain against single sex education for the reasons already stated. To improve my son's chance of academic success I will choose a good school, support his education at home and, if necessary obtain him additional help. To improve my son's chance of becoming a well rounded and sociable man I will make sure he mingles with girls and boys on a daily basis so that he will learn, as he grows, to deal with both.
I wonder if there has ever been a study with regard to long term effects of single sex and opposed to mixed sex classes... for example comparing such things as successful relationships (or otherwise) , incidences of depression/suicide, sexual problems, mental health issues blah blah blah.