Thursday, March 28, 2024

1.5 Million teens annually experience abuse from someone they are dating

teen violenceTeens need education about risks of dating violence

Parkland behavioral health counselors urge parents to be aware, involved

DALLAS – When Elisabet Martinez speaks to teens and their parents about teen dating violence and healthy relationships, she often shows them the “Power and Control” and “Equality” wheels. These visual aids demonstrate ways victims are abused physically, sexually and emotionally by partners, as well as how partners in a healthy relationship share power equally and communicate openly.

A licensed clinical social worker (LSCW) and crisis counselor at the Victim Intervention Program/Rape Crisis Center at Parkland Health & Hospital System, Martinez says that young adult dating violence is a big problem in the U.S., affecting youth in every community.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 1.5 million high school students experience physical abuse from a dating partner each year. And one is three adolescents is a victim of physical, sexual, emotional or verbal abuse from a dating partner. One quarter of high school girls have been victims of physical or sexual abuse, and approximately 70 percent of college students say they have been sexually coerced.
Educating teens about violence and abuse in romantic relationships is vital, Martinez says, but much of that work can be done by parents at home. With February designated as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, it’s a good time to learn more about the issue, she said.
“Parents are crucial in helping their children develop good relationships and providing support if they are in an abusive relationship,” Martinez said. “The most important thing parents can do is model what a healthy relationship looks like. It helps a child intuitively know that violent or abusive behavior is not right and not acceptable.”
Parents also should be on the lookout for red flags in their teen’s behavior, Martinez advised.
Parents should pay attention and recognize the warning signs of abuse, such as a partner who is jealous or possessive; excessive phone calls, emails or texts from the partner; or if your child seems sad or unusually quiet. Look for any physical signs of violence like bruises, marks or cuts; anxiety or depression; lack of participation in normal after-school activities; withdrawal from other friends and family; change in grades at school; or any other behaviors that concern you.
“If something doesn’t feel right about their dating relationship, teens should be encouraged to talk to a grown-up, whether it’s their parents, a teacher, school counselor, doctor, therapist or nurse,” Martinez said. “Every situation is different, but good communication is essential. It’s never too early to start teaching your child about healthy relationships and dating violence.”
Parkland offers individual counseling to teens and their parents who have experienced teen dating violence. Parkland Education Specialists are available to give presentations to schools about teen dating violence and healthy relationships. Martinez also recommends that parents and teens visit the website www.loveisrespect.org to learn more.
For information about Parkland services available at the Victim Intervention Program/Rape Crisis Center, please call 214.590.2926 or visit the Parkland website atwww.parklandhospital.com. A 24-hour hotline for emergency assistance is available at 214.590.0430.

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