The Oklahoma City series for February Is Dating Violence Prevention Month has included a) that teen violence can lead to adult violence in relationships. b) people who are violent have problems understanding that pain is inflicted by whatever they are doing and they need to stop instead of persist. c) why guys don't talk..... and now onto a profile of just what is teen dating violence.
According to the Atlanta, Georgia based CDC ( Center for Disease Control) Teen dating violence [PDF 314KB] is defined as the physical, sexual, or psychological/emotional violence within a dating relationship, as well as stalking. It can occur in person or electronically and may occur between a current or former dating partner.
You may have heard several different words used to describe teen dating violence. Here are just a few:
• Relationship Abuse
• Intimate Partner Violence
• Relationship Violence
• Dating Abuse
• Domestic Abuse
• Domestic Violence
The State of New York is one of the states in the US, there are about 20, who have declared February as Teen Dating Violence Prevention Month. The photograph accompanying this article is used as a public service announcement in the campaign, "Respect love, Love Respect".
It is certainly not only females who are victimized in relationships, but service evolution is highest for females.
The YWCA in Oklahoma has engendered a campaign throughout the state, partnering with the 7-11 Convenience Stores to post materials about domestic violence and sexual assault services in every store. On every ATM, there is a plexiglass holder for flyers and small fold out cards describing issues like those above and available resources. A peer recently noted what a great move that was, "The 7-11 is the great equalizer. Pretty much ANYONE can end up going to the 7-11, no race, gender or finanical barriers there. "
The CDC notes that :Violence is related to certain risk factors. Risks of having unhealthy relationships increase for teens who:
• Believe it's okay to use threats or violence to get their way or to express frustration or anger.
• Use alcohol or drugs.
• Can't manage anger or frustration.
• Hang out with violent peers.
• Have multiple sexual partners.
• Have a friend involved in dating violence.
• Are depressed or anxious.
• Have learning difficulties and other problems at school.
• Don't have parental supervision and support.
• Witness violence at home or in the community.
• Have a history of aggressive behavior or bullying.
Dating violence can be prevented when teens, families, organizations, and communities work together to implement effective prevention strategies.
So, whether you are a teen reading this, or a concerned adult... awareness of the origins of the issues is probably SECOND to the FACT that about 10% of all teens nationwide note they have had at least one incident of teen on teen aggression in a relationship.
IF you are in a medical or mental health crisis, go immediately to your nearest emergency room and ask for assistance.
If you are seeking support or advice about a problem that has to do with teen dating violence, call the YWCA hotline (405)917-9972.
The YWCA offers support, classes, group and individual therapies for teens who have suffered dating violence, family violence or sexual assault.
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