If you listened to Good Morning with Cathy today you already know the importance of being aware of teen dating violence. (By the way, the free podcast is available about 30 minutes after the broadcast. You can download it by using your iTunes account.)
Teen dating violence is also known as teen domestic violence. As with anything, the best defense is a good offense. Being aware of the danger signs, boosting self-esteem and being available to listen when a teen needs to talk are all important to combating this epidemic.
Epidemic is the right term. Take these stats into consideration:
- 1:3 girls who have been in a serious relationship have been in fear of being physically injured. (Loveisrespect.org)
- Nearly 1:10 students in grades 9-12 report having been purposefully physically hurt by a dating partner. (CDC)
We've identified the problem. Let's identify some resources that can help:
- Signs of Abuse by TN Blue; a website of the Tennessee Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence.
- Is this Abuse by the National Teen Dating Helpline; the website of Love is Respect.org
- Is this Abuse by the National Domestic Violence Hotline
Resources are available. Reach out for them. You don't have to feel like you're alone anymore.
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