Teenagers and College age students often experience violence in dating relationships. In dating violence, one partner tries to maintain power and control over the other through abuse. Dating violence crosses all racial, economic and social lines. Most victims are young women, who are also at greater risk for serious injury.

Dating Safety

· Consider double-dating the first few times you go out with a new person.
· Before leaving on a date, know the exact plans for the evening and make sure a parent or friend knows these plans and what time to expect you home. Let your date know that you are expected to call or tell that person when you get in.
· Be aware of your decreased ability to react under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
· If you leave a party with someone you do not know well, make sure you tell another person you are leaving and with whom. Ask a friend to call and make sure you arrived home safely.
· Assert yourself when necessary. Be firm and straightforward in your relationships.
· Trust your instincts. If a situation makes you uncomfortable, try to be calm and think of a way to remove yourself from the situation.

From the Domestic Violence Advocacy Program of Family Resources, Inc.

Dating violence often is hidden because teenagers typically:

· are inexperienced with dating relationships.
· are pressured by peers to act violently.
· want independence from parents.
· have "romantic" views of love.

Dating violence is influenced by how teenagers look at themselves and others.

Young men may believe:

· they have the right to "control" their female partners in any way necessary.
· "masculinity" is physical aggressiveness
· they "possess" their partner.
· they should demand intimacy.
· they may lose respect if they are attentive and supportive toward their girlfriends.