Teen Dating Violence

While young people experience the same types of abuse as adults, often the methods are unique to teen culture. Teens often report, “Technological abuse”---receiving threats by text messages or being stalked on face book.

One in five teen girls and one in ten younger teen girls (13 to 16) have electronically sent or posted nude or semi-nude photos or videos of themselves. 37% have sent or posted sexually suggestive text, email or IM (instant messages).

In a 2009 survey of parents, three in four parents say they have had a conversation with their teen about what it means to be in a healthy relationship – but 74% of sons and 66% of daughters said they have not had a conversation about dating abuse with a parent in the past year.

Of the teens in an abusive relationships, fewer than one in three (32%) confide in their parents about their abusive relationship.

More than half of teen girls (51%) say pressure from a guy is a reason girls send sexy messages or images, while only 18% of teen boys say pressure from a girls is a reason.

Questions to Ask in Identifying Abusive Behavior

• Are you unable to disagree with him/her?

• Does your partner get jealous when you go out or talk with others?

• Does your partner put you down, but then tell you he/she loves you?

• Does your partner constantly check up on you?

• Have you been held down, shoved, pushed, hit, kicked or had things thrown at you by your partner?

• Do you find your partner saying “I can’t live without you?”

• Does your partner make you choose between him/her of family and friends?

• Are you constantly apologizing for your partner’s behavior?

• Has your partner forced or intimidated you into having sex?

• Do you feel like you have to justify everything to your partner?

• Are you afraid to break up with your partner because you fear for your personal safety?

• Does your partner try to impose restrictions on the way you dress or your appearance?

You CAN find a way out. Talk with someone who can help, such as your parents, a teacher, a school guidance counselor, a parent of one of your friends, a coach, an advisor, or your employer.

If you or a loved one is in a violent relationship, please seek help. Call the 24-hour-crisis line to talk about a plan for your safety. Everything will be confidential. Call 1-800-223-7585.