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Dating Violence
When violence occurs between two people that are dating, it is called dating violence. Dating violence may be physical, emotional/verbal or sexual. Highlighted below are some important myths and facts about dating violence:
Myths
- Myth: Dating violence happens most often in the lower socioeconomic levels or when drugs and alcohol are involved.
Fact: Dating violence crosses all socioeconomic levels. Alcohol and other drug use are used as excuses for abusive behavior. - Myth: Sometimes females get what they deserve. They provoke violence.
Fact: No one deserves to be beaten or abused. - Myth: If someone is abusive in the dating relationship, they will stop once married.
Fact: Abuse is likely to escalate as the relationship continues.
Startling Statistics about Teen Dating Violence
- Young women between the ages of 14 and 17 represent 38 percent of individuals that experience date rape.
- The average age for the first occurrence of dating violence is age 15.
- More than 95 percent of dating violence is committed by males.
- Young women, ages 16 to 24, experience the highest rates of violence by current or former intimate partners.
- One out of every 3 teens is in an abusive relationship during their adolescent years.
- One third of teens age 13 to 18 have been involved in a physically abusive relationship. Less than 3 percent reported the incident to an authority figure such as a teacher, police officer or counselor. Only 6 percent reported it to a family member. More than 30 percent told no one at all.
- More than 50 percent of teens who witness domestic violence between their parents become involved in an abusive relationship.
- Approximately 1 in 5 adolescent girls report being physically or sexually hurt by a dating partner.
- 40 percent of teenage girls ages 14 to 17 reports knowing someone their age who has been hit or beaten by a boyfriend.
- 26 percent of girls in grades 9 to 12 have experienced physical abuse, sexual abuse or date rape.
additional information, resources and links
Thats Not Cool : videos, callout cards, talk it out forum, help and information for teens regarding unhealthy or abusive relationships.
No Means Know : facts, warning signs, getting help, helping others and healthy dating relationships.
Choose Respect : promotes buildilng healthy dating relationships.
Break The Cycle : explains the cycle of violence and answers the question, "What is dating violence?"
ACADV : includes a Dating Bill of Rights and safety planning.
Contact Us
The Women’s Resource Center of the New River Valley
Address: P.O. Box 477, Radford, VA 24143
Office: (540) 639-9592
Hotline: (540) 639-1123
TTY: (540) 639-2197
Toll Free: (800) 788-1123 (regional access)
Fax: (540) 633-2382
E-mail: resources@wrcnrv.org
Website: www.wrcnrv.org