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Dating violence among teens. How can you help?
Dating violence is defined by the United States justice department of justice as “the perpetration or threat of an act of violence by at least one member of and unmarried couple on the other member within the context of dating or courtship.” Date rape is also a common occurrence. This violence happens most among teenagers, and to women between the ages of 16 and 24 years of age. One out of three teenagers have experienced some sort of violence while dating. Dating violence usually happens when one tries to maintain power and control over the other through some sort of abuse. Unchecked this can lead to date rape.
Dating violence and or date rape cross all boundaries of ethnicity, race, social status and gender. As a teenager it is understandable that you want your independence from parents, but inexperience in the area of dating must be considered. You need to always be able to try to talk to your parents about dating no matter how hard you think it is. Parents were once in the place you are now, and have a little more experience in the area of dating.
Dating violence safety net. You’re it mom and dad.
Dating violence may be avoided if parents just get more involved in your kid’s activities. Be the deterrent for date rape, be a pest. Let that kid your daughter is going out with know that you will hold him accountable. You may as well accept it now that you are going to be at odds with your teenager. But it is your job to be the parent, not their buddy. Enforce you curfews and stick to the rules of dating that you and your teen have established for dating. Parent can be the safety plan by just making sure you are involved. Don’t give up and let your teen have his/her way because it’s hard. Keep your position. This gives you teen a way out if they do face troubles.
Dating violence may go without being reported for many reasons. Teens have a need for independence. They may have romanticized views of love. They may be facing peer pressure of being in a relationship or having sex. Parents be nosy. When your teen is dating someone new insist that they go on a double date. Have times for check in calls. Require that they be home by a certain time. These are your teens safety nets. Give them ways out of a date or situation. They may not understand but they need to have these options of escape in place. That is your job.
Dating violence and of course date rape is usually perpetrated by someone who known by the victim. Keep up with whom you teens are hanging out with. Be vigilant. It doesn’t matter if you are cool in your teen’s eyes. Later in life when they have more wisdom and understanding your seemingly over zealous actions will be appreciated. Don't let them down. Do your part.
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