Understanding and Preventing Teen Dating Violence

Data from CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey in 2019 indicate that among U.S. high school students who reported dating during the 12 months before the survey:

• About 1 in 12 experienced physical dating violence.
• About 1 in 12 experienced sexual dating violence.

(Fast Facts: Preventing Teen Dating Violence |Violence Prevention Injury Center|CDC, 2023)

Warning Signs:

Teens may exhibit various signs indicating they are in an abusive relationship, such as:

• Spending less time with family and friends.
• Engaging excessively in communication with their partner (e.g., texting, calling).
• Giving up activities or interests that were once important to them.
• Experiencing declining grades or school attendance.
• Feeling pressured by their partner regarding decisions or appearance.
• Apologizing or making excuses for their partner’s behavior.
• Having unexplained injuries or trying to conceal them.
• Dealing with a partner who is excessively jealous or possessive.
• Showing signs of depression or anxiety.
• Witnessing their partner abuse others or animals.
• Changing their appearance drastically.

Positive Supportive Approach for Parents/Guardians:

• Initiating open and honest conversations with the teenager about their relationship is crucial.
• Believing and validating the teenager’s feelings and taking their concerns seriously can help establish trust and encourage further disclosure.
• Avoiding the minimization of the situation based on age, experience, or relationship duration is important.
• Recognizing that dating violence can occur in any type of relationship, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, is essential.
• If the teenager ends the relationship, offering unwavering support and connecting them with professional assistance is vital.
• Providing guidance and education on healthy relationship dynamics can help prevent future abusive behaviors.

In conclusion, addressing teen dating violence requires proactive efforts from parents, caregivers, and educators to create supportive environments where teenagers feel safe to seek help and resources. Early intervention and ongoing support are essential in promoting healthy relationships and preventing further harm.

Reference:

Fast Facts: Preventing Teen Dating Violence |Violence Prevention|Injury
Center|CDC. (2023). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved February 19, 2024, retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/teendatingviolence/fastfact.html

By Kiran Singh, LMFT at Therapy2Thrive counseling center in Pleasanton