Teen Dating & Violence

What is Teen Dating Violence?

Teen dating violence is any physical, psychological, or emotional abuse that occurs within dating relationships of young people. This violence usually takes place face-to-face or electronically, such as via phone calls, texts, or the Internet. Teen dating violence doesn’t always occur between individuals who are currently in a relationship; it can also happen between those who were once in a relationship.


What does Teen Dating Violence look like?

Physical Violence

: any type of abuse that causes bodily harm

Ex. pinching, hitting, shoving, kicking

Emotional Violence

: threatening behavior aimed at a partner in an attempt to diminish their self-worth

Ex. bullying, purposeful embarrassment

Sexual Violence

: actively forcing someone to participate in a sexual act when they not consent.

Another example of sexual violence is threatening to spread rumors if a partner rejects sex.

Stalking

: undesired harassing or threatening behavior

Ex. repeated, uninvited visits to someone’s home, unwanted surveillance, consistent electronic communication

Warning Signs

You may be experiencing teen dating violence if your partner does/exhibits any of the following:

  • Checking your phone, email, or social media accounts without your permission.

  • Putting you down frequently, especially in front of others.

  • Isolating you from friends or family (physically, financially, or emotionally).

  • Extreme jealousy or insecurity.

  • Explosive outbursts, temper, or mood swings.

  • Any form of physical harm.

  • Possessiveness or controlling behavior.

  • Pressuring you or forcing you to have sex.

Effects of Teen Dating Violence

Unhealthy, abusive, or violent relationships may contribute to negative consequences. Correlational research suggests that victims of teen dating violence are more likely to:

  • do poorly in school or not attend school due to feeling unsafe;

  • report binge drinking, smoking, using drugs, or engaging in unhealthy diet behaviors

  • become pregnant or have an STD

  • attempt suicide and report feelings of hopelessness and sadness

  • develop a negative body image and become uncomfortable with their sexuality

  • be overly dependent on others and not achieving independence

  • enter into violent adult relationships.

Hotlines/Help

National Dating Abuse Helpline - Love Is Respect

    • Call: 1.866.331.9474 / Text: LOVEIS to 22522

    • Chat online: Visit www.loveisrespect.org and click “Chat Online Now”

    • A service of Love is Respect, this national, 24-hour resource is specifically designed for teens and young adults. The Helpline is accessible by phone or online chat and offers real-time, one-on-one support from peer advocates trained to offer support, information, and advocacy to those involved in dating abuse relationships as well as concerned friends, parents, teachers, clergy, law enforcement, and service providers.


The National Domestic Violence Hotline

    • Call: 1.800.799.SAFE

    • Established in 1996 as a component of the Violence Against Women Act passed by Congress, the Hotline is a nonprofit organization that provides crisis intervention, information, and referral to victims of domestic violence, perpetrators, friends, and families. The Hotline is toll-free, confidential, and anonymous.


What Should I Do

Tell someone.

    • Reach out to a trusted friend, adult, family member, or teacher, who can help you out of a situation before it escalates.

    • There are a list of organizations you can contact for help as well at the bottom of the page.

Document the abuse.

    • Keep a record of what’s taking place. Take screenshots of texts, and save records of any other electronic communication.

Leave the situation.

  • Relationships can turn violent quickly. If this happens, get out of the immediate situation. Consult friends or trusted adults for help before the abuse intensifies.