Dating Violence crosses all racial, gender, gender identity, economic and social lines. Most victims are young women, and girls ages 16-24 are at the highest risk. However, men are not segregated at all and it is estimated that 1 in 5 boys will experience dating violence in his lifetime. What is commonly dismissed as “drama” by most, may in fact be control, manipulation, and abuse. Dating abuse is when one person maintains power and control over another person in a dating relationship.

It is estimated that 89% of teens between the ages of 13 and 18 say they have been in dating relationships. Nearly three in four tweens (age 11-14) say boyfriend/girlfriend relationships usually begin at age 14 or younger and only half of all tweens claim to know the warning signs of a bad/hurtful relationship. One in three teenagers report knowing a friend or peer who has been hit, punched, kicked, slapped, choked or physically hurt by their partner.

Without early intervention, these children and teens are prone to emotional adjustment problems which can develop into symptoms of psychopathology, delinquency and substance abuse. Unfortunately, it has been proven that children and teens who are exposed to domestic violence are at an increased risk of being murdered or physically injured.

Read the Teen Dating Bill of Rights

A Parent's Guide to Teen Dating

As parents, we are all constantly looking out for our children’s safety. It is equally important to look out for their safety as they enter into dating relationships. Getting into a dating relationship can be very exciting, especially for a teenager who has never dated before. However, it can also be a potentially dangerous situation if the teen does not know the warning signs of dating violence. 1 out of 4 girls and 1 out of 5 boys will experience dating violence in their lifetime.¹ It can affect any teenager regardless of race or income level. Males and females alike can both be victims of dating violence and abuse. Abusive relationships can take on many different forms and a victim may not always show signs of physical abuse. Additionally, nearly half of all boys and girls say the abuse occurs in a school building or on school grounds.

Many teens do not know that they are in an abusive relationship and sometimes it may be difficult to acknowledge that they are in one. Many teens who reach out for help are often dismissed by their friends and family and feel isolated and alone. You can be part of the solution - listen and learn the signs of Dating Violence.