| 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.
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