Teenagers---no longer children, but not yet adults---begin to form their first romantic relationships. Yet without the understanding of healthy and unhealthy behaviors in dating relationships, teens are especially susceptible to becoming targets of dating abuse. Consider this: one out of five teenage girls who have been in a relationship said a boyfriend had threatened violence or self-harm when presented with a break up, and one in three teenagers report knowing a friend or peer who has been hit, punched, kicked, slapped, choked, or physically hurt by a dating partner.

Dating abuse and domestic violence are typically not on-time incidents, but a pattern of abusive behaviors over time that causes fear and/or harm. As the pattern continues, the abuser uses emotional manipulation and/or physical domination to gain control and power over his or her partner.

Teen dating abuse does not discriminate. It affects young people of all races, religions, and cultures, regardless of how much money they have or what neighborhood they live in.

Abuse in relationships can be a difficult topic to for anyone to talk about, especially boys. Because it has traditionally been considered a "women's issue," many boys feel as if they have no positive, proactive way to help stop it. However, it is important for both men and women to get involved in preventing abuse and to have a better understanding of the resources available to those who experience such abuse.

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