February marks the month that focuses on teen violence prevention and awareness. This month underlines for many the fact that violence not only happens in adult relationships, but in teen relationships as well. By bringing focus on the topic it urges many communities to start programs that prevent the cycle of abuse for our teens. These programs educate the community and young people alike about what a healthy relationship is and ways to recognize the signs of abuse. By beginning to educate the younger generations on abuse the hope is that this will decrease abuse that may happen in the future.
What is teen dating violence?
As with adults, teen dating violence can include physical abuse, verbal and emotional abuse and sexual abuse. Teens are also subject to having different kinds of abuse directed at them, such as technological abuse. This kind of abuse is indicative of receiving threats through text messages, e-mail or social network sites.
What kind of violence happens?
The way that teen dating violence happens can be very similar to the way that adults get abused. The most common behaviors that a teen perpetrator exhibits are trying to control their partner, demanding to know where you go and who you are with at all times, telling you what to do, spying on you or invading your privacy by looking at Your email or text messages or your journal without your permission, name calling or putting you down and generally displaying negative moods toward you or displaying an excessive temper.
How common is teen dating violence?
Statistics state that the largest number of women that experience intimate partner violence are between the ages of 16-24 years of age. It has been reported that “Nearly 1.5 million high school students nationwide experience physical abuse from a dating partner in a single year” (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 2011). In addition, one in ten high school students have been intentionally hit by their boyfriend or girlfriend. It has also statistically been proven that relationships where violence began during adolescence are often times more severe than other reported violent incidents.
Watch for changes in your teen’s behavior
The bottom line is that teens need our help. Teens are known for often times engaging in risky behavior and only about 33% of teens who have been abused by a dating partner report it. In addition, a whopping 81% of parents don’t believe that dating violence is even an issue. There is a major disconnect here. Parents need to talk to their kids and watch for any signs that their teen is acting differently. Maybe they are more withdrawn or haven’t been spending time with anyone except the person that they’re dating. Do they get nervous if you try to ask any questions?
Teens are often not very forthcoming with information,. However, as their parents you will be able to recognize if there are changes in their behavior. The old adage that ’actions speak louder than words’ might be one of those old sayings that people say, but is also very true. Talk to your teen if you are alarmed that your teen may be a victim of abuse. Assure them that you are not there to judge them and just want to offer help. Keeping the lines of communication open with your teen will be critical in getting them help if and when they need it.
Amanda Presho - Amanda holds a BA in social services. She works in the social services arena with an emphasis in assisting the homeless population, as ...
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