Teen Dating Violence
By Valerie Lenis, Women’s Support Services
Community
Studies show that 1 in 5 high schoolers will experience dating violence in their lifetime (Futures wIthout Violence). With such severe statistics, it is crucial to understand teen dating violence and its warning signs. Teen dating violence is the emotional, physical, sexual, and/or technological abuse within a relationship between adolescent partners.
This violence is intentional, learned, and will escalate over time. Some warning signs include extreme jealousy, isolation from friends and family, constant texting or calling, threatening, and many more. Given the prevalence of technology in the lives of young people, teen dating violence is increasingly occurring through social media, texting, and other apps.
Consequences of teen dating violence can include trauma, depression/anxiety, and risk of substance misuse. Experiencing teen dating violence can also increase the possibility of experiencing violence in future adult relationships...