Dating Violence: Fast Facts

 

Fast Facts:

• According to the National Center for Victims of Crime, Dating Violence is defined as "controlling, abusive, and aggressive behavior in a romantic relationship.  It occurs in both heterosexual and homosexual relationships and can include verbal, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, or a combination of these."
• Approximately one out of every three high school and college students has experienced some form of violence in dating relationships.
• According to the U.S. Department of Justice, 95 percent of the reported incidents of assault in relationships are committed by males.  However, in junior high or middle school people who use violence are equally male and female.
• Often abuse occurs in a cycle:
• • Phase 1: Tension
  • Phase 2: Explosion
  • Phase 3: Honeymoon

What are some early warning signs of dating violence?

• Your dating partner is jealous or possessive
• You receive lots of negative teasing from your partner, even in front of friends.
• You feel like it is your responsibility to make the relationship work, and you are expected to change your behavior to suit the other person.
• You are afraid of what your partner might do when s/he is angry.
• You are afraid to end the relationship.

How can I help a friend who is in a violent relationship?

• Tell your friend that you are worried about them.  Listen to what s/he has to say without being judgmental.
• Suggest to your friend that s/he talk to a trusted adult -- maybe a teacher at your school, a coach from your soccer team, the grown-up sibling of a friend.
• Remind your friend about all the good things they have going for them.  Many people in abusive relationships are no longer able to see their own abilities and gifts.
• Call the police if you witness an assault.  Tell an adult if you suspect the abuse but haven't witnessed it first-hand.