Any and all abusive or controlling behaviors by a significant other constitute teen dating/ domestic violence. A survey by the CDC in 2011, showed that 23% of females and 14% of males that experienced stalking, rape or physical violence, by their partner experienced some type of partner violence between the ages of 11 and 17 first. Teen dating violence has increased a lot over the past few years. It can have a serious impact on its victims. Victims can experience anxiety, depression, engage in alcohol and drug use, or even have suicidal thoughts. Teen dating violence is a serious issue and action needs to be taken. Unhealthy relationships go hand and hand with dating violence. Unhealthy relationships can take a major toll on the victims it affects. A majority of the time, victims are afraid of getting out of unhealthy relationships because they are afraid that the violence will still continue. It is very important that friends or family members of victims are willing to support them. With help and support from friends and loved ones, victims are able to heal. Also, with help, victims have higher chances of getting out of unhealthy relationships safely.

If you have experienced teen dating violence, please remember the following:

1. It is NEVER your fault.
2. You are NOT alone!
3. You have the right to be in a healthy relationship.
4. Your partner NEVER has the right to be abusive to you in any way, shape or form.
5. You should never have to put up with your partner’s disrespectful behavior.
6. It’s okay to get out of a relationship that you don’t feel safe in.
7. It’s also okay to seek help

Here are some resources you might find helpful:

1. loveisrespect.org
2. Dating Abuse hotline: 1-866-331-9474
3. breakthecycle.org
4. victimsofcrime.org

Sources:

CDC.gov