Actress Taylor Armstrong from the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills has been speaking out about her marriage to an abusive husband. But adults aren’t the only ones who experience domestic violence (DV) and abuse—more and more teens seem to be having troubling relationships filled with anger and problems.
In stark contrast to the romantic vibe of Valentine’s Day, two years ago February became the official teen DV month. One in 10 high school students nationwide report they were physically hurt on purpose by their boyfriend or girlfriend, and still more experienced verbal or emotional abuse like shaming, bullying, or threats.
Dating violence isn’t just physical – it can be emotionally abusive, especially for teens with low self-esteem who may not realize how damaging criticism or bullying can be. Youth who are experiencing their first loves may be afraid to speak up due to fear of losing their partner or losing their identity as a boyfriend or girlfriend. A red flag for future physical abuse may be yelling, name calling, and controlling behavior, like jealousy.
What’s important to keep in mind is that a good relationship should make you feel supported, confident, safe, and loved, not angry, fearful, and insecure. Not sure if you’re in an unhealthy or abusive relationship? Read about the difference between love and infactuation on BodiMojo to gain some insight into your love life, and about one teen’s experience.
Other resources:
- LoveIsRespect.org
- AThinLine.org
- StartStrongTeens.org
- CDC Dating Violence Facts
- UHopeLine, an extension of Verizon Wireless’ HopeLine® from Verizon, encourages college students to give back to victims of domestic violence by hosting phones drives to collect no-longer-used wireless devices from the people in their communities. Through HopeLine, donated devices are recycled and turned into support for victims of domestic violence. Check out the online tool kit.
Samantha Burns, a Boston area mental health counselor, encourages victims of DV to break the cycle
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