This story on Teen Dating Violence is about a District Attorney in Westchester County, New York who is committed to breaking the cycle of abuse among young people.
In the article she cites several facts about patterns of teen dating violence which just happen to mimic domestic violence in so many ways such as cutting across all ethnic groups, socioeconomic groups, geographic regions and even religious groups. Back in the day we called it “an equal opportunity destroyer of lives.”
The article also points out that abusive relationships in the formative years can lead to lifelong unhealthy relationship practices, including domestic violence. It can also lead to chronic mental physical conditions and lead to risky behavior such as drug abuse, binge drinking, physical fights and attempted suicide.
The article reports that:
- One in 10 high school students has been hit, slapped or physically hurt by a boyfriend or girlfriend.
- Violent behavior often begins between the ages of 12 and 18.
- Girls and young women between the ages of 16 and 24 experience the highest rate of intimate partner violence- almost triple the national average.
As we have reported, many teens don’t report dating violence because they are afraid and ashamed to tell their friends and family.
The number one thing that teens can do is to seek help. There are a multitude of resources available.
Last April I did a story on The Subject of Teen Dating Abuses where we reported the Center For Disease Control defines TDV (Teen Dating Violence) “as the physical, sexual, psychological, or emotional violence within a dating relationship, including stalking. It can occur in person or electronically and might occur between a current or former dating partner.”
In one of my first articles about domestic violence from January, 2015 on the Origins of Domestic Violence we then concluded along with many professionals that “..domestic violence is a learned trait. Sons see their fathers abusing their mothers with no repercussions and figure that it is okay.”
It is easy enough to carry a self-defense weapon with you when you’re a teenager. Pepper spray, especially, is legal everywhere with some cities and states having restrictions on the ingredients. There are also some age restrictions so be careful before you purchase one. But we would recommend that every teenage young lady learn how to defend herself with a self-defense course-one that is geared towards women.
This DVD training video on Women’s Combat teaches principles and tactics designed to defeat a determined sexual predator. This one-hour video focuses on defenses against hair pulling, choking and being pinned or being suddenly shoved from any direction. It is put together by Kimber Johnson who is a lifetime martial artist and assault survivor.
What experiences do you have with teen dating violence either as a parent of a teenager or personally? Share with us your secrets on how you have dealt with it.