It occurs in both heterosexual and homosexual relationships and can include any combination of verbal, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse.

It may start as early as middle school when youth start dating for the first time. One in six 12 year olds report experiencing physical dating violence, according to a recent study conducted by RTI International.

The dangerous effects of teen dating violence and sexual assault can significantly affect the rest of a teenager's life if it is not prevented or stopped, even after the violence has ended. Victims are more likely to engage in high-risk behaviors, including binge drinking, cocaine use, suicide attempts, and eating disorders.
 

Some statistics

Approximately 1 in 3 girls in the United States is a victim of physical, emotional or verbal abuse from a dating partner.

More than 40% of abusive incidents happen in a school building or on school grounds.

Technology (Facebook, Twitter, blogging, text messaging, etc.) that tweens and teens use allows teen dating violence to increase in pervasiveness, but remain more hidden than ever.

Only 3% of students who experience dating violence tell an authority figure, while 60% tell a friend.

Additional information

The following websites are great tools for learning more about teen dating violence:

• Teen Dating Violence Fact Sheet 2012 by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention
• TDV Fact Sheet by the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence
• Start Strong Teens

 
Get help!

Click here for a list of Philadelphia organizations and resources that can help if you or a friend is experiencing teen dating violence.