Dating violence includes verbal, emotional, sexual or physical abuse by one partner against another in a dating relationship. If you think none of these things can happen to you ... think again. Research shows that violence often occurs between people who are dating. In fact, 25-50% of couples experience violence before marriage.
Are You at Risk?
- Have you or your partner ever done any of the following to one another?
- Grabbed/held your partner to keep him/her from leaving
- Embarrassed a person in private or public
- Subjected a person to reckless driving
- Hurt in a joking way - twisted an arm, tickled, pulled or pushed
- Thrown objects at a person
Violent Episodes -- The violence occurs. It may include physical battering, verbal, emotional or sexual abuse. Incidents usually become more serious and more frequent than the ones before, and the time between incidents becomes shorter. Loving Reconciliation -- After the violence the abuser is sorry he/she hurt you, makes promises it won't happen again, and often is very kind and generous. As tension builds the cycle will be repeated.
Facts About Dating Violence
- Violence can occur at any time in a relationship and usually gets worse over time.
- Alcohol and/or drug abuse does not cause violence, although either may be present when violence occurs.
- People who are violent to a partner usually blame the other person for their actions.
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- Violence in a relationship is a crime. Legal steps can be taken to protect the victim.
- Studies show a woman is battered by a boyfriend or husband every twelve seconds.
- According to the FBI, 30% of female homicide victims are killed by husbands or boyfriends.
- One half of 506 Kentucky college students surveyed, had experienced violence in their dating relationships.
- Research shows that 50% of girls living in violent homes will become victims of partner abuse. 85% of teen boys living with violence will be abusive to their partners.
If Violence Occurs...
Consider your safety plan first. Get away from the violent person.
- Break the silence. Tell someone about your partner's violent behavior: friends, family, a teacher, a counselor, or anyone you can trust.
- Remember the violence will not go away on its own. Help is available for both you and your partner. Contact your local domestic violence program for help.
Assault is a crime. Even if the attacker is a "date", it is against the law. Alternatives for you include calling the police, filing a criminal complaint, or petitioning for emergency protection.
Information provided by Springhaven, Inc.
