Teen Dating Violence
Teen dating violence is more common than we think. Research shows that girls between the ages of 16-24 have experienced a higher rate of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse by their boyfriend. Girls exposed to abuse at home are at an even higher risk of entering into an abusive relationship. The lack of education on abuse may lead a teen to believe this is a normal and perhaps acceptable behavior.
Effects of Abuse
DESTRUCTIVE BEHAVIOR
higher risk for substance abuse, eating disorders, risky sexual behavior and further domestic violence
TEEN PREGNANCY
six times more likely to become pregnant and twice as likely to get a STD
SUICIDE
50% attempt suicide, compared to 12.5% of non- abused girls and 5.4% of non-abused boys