|
Abuse
in adolescent dating relationships is common,
say researchers from the University of Rochester
School of Medicine who examined abusive teen
relationships and links to other risky behaviors.
Using data from a large national health study
of adolescents between 11 and 21 years of age,
researchers asked teens whether they had ever
had an intimate partner who called them names,
insulted them, treated them disrespectfully,
swore at them, threatened them with violence,
pushed or shoved them, or threw something at
them that could hurt them. In the study, the
teens also reported whether they used substances
such as tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana in the
last year. Teens answered questions about whether
they had engaged in antisocial behavior, such
as destroying property, stealing, lying to parents,
or running away, during the past year. Teens
also answered questions about their participation
in violence, such as fighting, threatening someone
with a weapon, or shooting or stabbing someone.
The teens were also asked about symptoms of
depression.
Both teen girls and boys reported similar rates
of abuse by intimate partners; 21% of teen boys
and 22% of teen girls said they were abused
by intimate partners. Girls who had a history
of abuse were significantly more likely to use
substances, be depressed and suicidal, and participate
in violent and antisocial behaviors. Boys who
had a history of abuse were significantly more
likely to practice antisocial and violent behavior
and be depressed.
What This Means to You: Abuse by an intimate
partner is common among adolescent boys and
girls and may increase a teen's risk for depression
or participation in other risky behaviors. Signs
of abuse by an intimate partner may include:
unexplained bruises, broken bones, sprains,
or marks; excessive guilt or shame for no apparent
reason; secrecy or withdrawal from friends and
family; and avoidance of school or social events
with excuses that don't seem to make any sense.
If your child is being abused, he or she needs
your patience, love, and understanding. Talk
to your child's doctor or a mental health professional
about how to help your child recover from abuse
and avoid risky behaviors.
Return to
The American Academy of Experts in Traumatic
Stress Homepage |
