Identifying Teen Dating Violence

Because of Valentine's Day, February often conjures images of love & affection. However, many sources estimate that a dating partner:

• physically hurts 1 in 10 HS students on purpose &
• abuses 1 in 3 teens in some fashion.

Studies have shown that both boys & girls use violence in anger, frustration, self defense, or to control their partner. (The Children's Safety Network)

There are 3 major categories of teen dating violence:

• Physical abuse – hitting, slapping, shoving, kicking, etc.
• Emotional abuse – threats, name calling, yelling, ridiculing, rumors, isolation, intimidation, stalking, technological harassment or intimidation, etc.
• Sexual abuse – unwanted touching or kissing, forced or coerced sexual acts, etc.

This is not a one-time discussion. It needs to be done early & often for both males & females from childhood on... even through college.

Signs & symptoms may vary. However, any of these should raise suspicion of a potential problem.

• Possessiveness, jealousy, snooping
• False accusations, putdowns
• Isolation or withdrawing from friends &/or activities they like
• Depression, anxiety, fear, or mood swings
• Unexplained (or poorly explained) bruises or other marks

For help or to learn more, check out:
- Families Living Violence Free in Oxford (24/7 Crisis Line 919-693-5700; youth counseling is available.) 
- Love is Respect (Call, text or chat 24/7.)
- TeenHealth's Abusive Relationships
- Centers for Disease Control's Teen Dating Violence
- That's Not Cool Campaign teaching friends & family how to spread the word. 
- Nemours Foundation's KidsHealth in the Classroom (lesson plans for grades 6-8 & 9-12)