Teens / Dating Violence

Dating Abuse is…
Any action, behavior, words, etc that are used by one person in a relationship to dominate and control the other person. Dating violence can affect all types of people, regardless of race, culture, socioeconomic status, education level, or sexual orientation.

Dating abuse and violence can come in many forms. Typically, most types of abuse can fit in one of the following categories:

Physical
This type of abuse may be more obvious, and involves physical violence such as hitting, kicking, shoving, biting, strangling, making threats to hurt ones partner or themselves, using intimidation such as certain looks, damaging property (punching walls or lockers, breaking objects), hurting pets.

Sexual
This type of abuse is any unwanted sexual contact or comments. This also includes not being honest with sexual history in regards to health, and not allowing the use of or discussion of birth control or protection from sexually transmitted infections. It may include forced or unwanted sex or sexual acts, making sexual comments that degrade their partner, or forcing sexual contact with friends.

Emotional/ Psychological
Emotional abuse can include many things- name calling, telling someone they are stupid or that the things they do or believe aren’t worth while. It can also include telling someone how to dress or who they can talk to, or even making some one stop talking to friends/ family or stop participating in an activity that makes them happy. It can also be putting someone down in the presence of others and humiliating someone in public.

Safe Dating Tips

1. Set your limits from the beginning. Don’t let anyone violate your space.
   Discuss your desires and limits. Don’t assume your date feels the same way you do!
2. Always trust your instincts: If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, it probably is!
3. Do not put yourself in a vulnerable situation. Be aware of your surroundings.
4. Never leave your drink unattended or accept drinks from anyone else.
5. First date?  Never go alone. Make it a group date or a couples date.
6. Get together in public places.
7. You have the right to say “No” to any situation.
8. Try to stay away from alcohol or drugs. They dull you!
9. Do not be embarrassed to make a scene. Safety always comes first.
10. If you have a cell phone or are at someone’s house, make arrangements with a friend to call you midway through the date to check up.
11. Practice internet safety.
12. Always let someone know where you are going to be and when you plan to be back.

If you feel that you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please contact us at (866)356-4226 for free and confdiental services, information, and assistance.