If the story is true, singers Rihanna and Chris Brown were involved in a domestic violence incident over the weekend. While Los Angeles Police have a policy against identifying alleged domestic violence victims, two people who know both Brown and Rihanna confirmed she was the woman police said had "suffered visible injuries and identified Brown as her attacker."
According to recent studies, 20 percent of teenage girls and young women have experienced some form of dating violence(1). Teen dating violence often increases the risks of substance abuse, sexual activity, pregnancy and suicide, especially for female victims (1). Teen dating violence includes physical abuse as well as sexual, verbal and emotional abuse (1). The potential for violent behavior in an abusive relationship often escalates as the relationship becomes more serious(1). Teen dating violence crosses all gender, racial and socioeconomic lines (1).
So, as a parent, what can you do? One resource is the Liz Claiborne campaign against teen violence. The campaign has published an online booklet with tips for talking with your teenage sons and daughters about abusive dating behavior. The most important factor is keeping the lines of communication open.
Here are a list of warning signs that your child may be involved in an abusive relationship, according to the love is not abuse campaign.
- She apologizes for his behavior and makes excuses for him.
- She loses interest in activities she once enjoyed.
- You see him violently lose his temper (striking or breaking items).
- She stops seeing friends or family and becomes more and more isolated.
- She casually mentions his violent behavior, but laughs it off as a joke.
If you or a family member needs help, please contact the National Domestic Abuse Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE.
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