Teen dating violence prevalent, study finds

              A new survey on teen dating abuse and violence reveals that significant numbers of teens are experiencing rampant emotional, verbal, sexual and physical abuse in their dating relationships. One in three teen girls in a dating relationship has feared for her physical safety, one in two has compromised beliefs to please a partner, and one in three has been strongly controlled in what she does and where she goes. Liz Claiborne Inc. released these findings at a news conference in Washington, D.C. this week with Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-NY).

              The research shows deep and troubling evidence that significant numbers of today’s teens are not only victims of dating violence but are accepting it as normal. More than 60 percent said they have had a boyfriend or girlfriend who made them feel bad or embarrassed about themselves, and one in four has been in a relationship in which a partner called them names and put them down. One in five teens in a serious relationship has been hit, slapped or pushed by a partner.

              As teens get older and enter into serious relationships, a still greater number are exhibiting and accepting controlling, abusive and even violent behaviors, the survey finds.

              “Teen dating violence exists today in every community,” Senator Crapo said. “We have an obligation as loving parents, community leaders, and responsible and caring citizens to ensure that our children understand the importance of healthy interpersonal relationships. Our children must know that relationship violence is unacceptable.”

              Teenage Research Unlimited (TRU) conducted the online survey of more than 1,000 teens ages 13 to 18.

--Speaking Up, Volume 12, Issue 6
  April 27, 2006
  Family Violence Prevention Fund