Break the cycle
To break the cycle society needs to disrupt the social norms that perpetuate teen dating violence/abuse in our culture such as:
No More
http://nomore.org/take-action/preventviolence/
- glorifying abusive power over other men or women
- objectifying women
- demeaning men
- tolerating violence and aggression
- promoting male dominance
- sexually abusive or physically violent hazing
- blaming victims for what happened to them
No More
http://nomore.org/take-action/preventviolence/
Regardless of the type (verbal, emotional, technological, physical, and/or sexual) of dating abuse or reasons behind the abuse, it is never okay. Research shows that teens who exhibit abusive behaviors in dating relationships are more likely to exhibit the same behaviors as adults. It is important to understand the cycle of abuse so that you, as parents, can help break this cycle and help your teen start over.
http://www.bandbacktogether.com/teen-breaking-cycle-abuse/
- Encourage your teen to confide in you, a friend, family member, coach, or trusted adult about abusive relationships or any other difficult or compromising situation. There may be extreme fear behind taking this step, however, this is the first step of breaking the cycle.
- Help your teen to manage his or her feelings, stress, and expressions. Teach him or her healthy communication skills, including conflict resolution. Teens with these tools are better equipped to take action in an abusive situation.
- Encourage your teen to join a support group - there are many different types of support groups for all kinds of abuse and trauma. Joining a group can help your teen feel less alone.
http://www.bandbacktogether.com/teen-breaking-cycle-abuse/
Question from parents: Why do teen relationships become abusive and why doesn't my teen listen to me when I suggest that the relationship is not good and needs to end?
Answer: Abuse in teen relationships is about control, just like in adult relationships. There are many things that underlie the abuse and many reasons why it is not easy to end the relationship. Here are some of the dynamics underlying an abusive relationship.
Reasons for abuse Why a victim stays
Power and control <==> Bonds with abuser
Abuse during childhood <==> Hope that things will get better
Jealousy <==> Romantic ideal that love conquers all
Feels trapped <==> Fear that partner will not let go
Peer pressure and gender roles <==> Lack of resources
Insecurity <==> Low self confidence
Uncontrollable anger <==> Feels trapped
Low self confidence <==> Does not understand the consequences
Parent FAQs: Relationship Violence - Help for Parents
http://www.atg.wa.gov/page.aspx?id=1972#.VGj47lfF-Cc
Answer: Abuse in teen relationships is about control, just like in adult relationships. There are many things that underlie the abuse and many reasons why it is not easy to end the relationship. Here are some of the dynamics underlying an abusive relationship.
Reasons for abuse Why a victim stays
Power and control <==> Bonds with abuser
Abuse during childhood <==> Hope that things will get better
Jealousy <==> Romantic ideal that love conquers all
Feels trapped <==> Fear that partner will not let go
Peer pressure and gender roles <==> Lack of resources
Insecurity <==> Low self confidence
Uncontrollable anger <==> Feels trapped
Low self confidence <==> Does not understand the consequences
Parent FAQs: Relationship Violence - Help for Parents
http://www.atg.wa.gov/page.aspx?id=1972#.VGj47lfF-Cc