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Family Advocacy raises dating violence awareness
Posted 1/31/2012 Updated 2/1/2012
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by Valerie Seitz
18th Medical Operations Squadron
1/31/2012 - KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Teenagers, while no longer children, they are also not quite adults.
During these formative years, teens begin to develop a foundation for dating and developing romantic relationships. Unfortunately, without an accurate understanding of what is considered healthy versus unhealthy dating behavior, many are susceptible to becoming victims of dating abuse.
According to a 2009 survey, nearly one in three teenagers reported knowing a friend or peer who had been hit, punched, kicked, slapped, choked or physically hurt by a dating partner.
Abuse can be defined as a pattern of physically, sexually, verbally, and/or emotionally harmful type behavior and, in dating relationships, can take many forms. Dating abuse can range from threats of violence, verbal attacks and other forms of intimidation to extreme jealousy, possessiveness and controlling behavior. If unreported, dating abuse can eventually lead to punching, slapping, pushing, and possibly even rape or murder.
Dating abuse is not typically a one-time incident; rather, it is a pattern of abusive behavior over time which causes fear and potentially harm. As the pattern continues, the abuser uses emotional manipulation and possibly physical domination to gain power and control over his or her partner.
Dating abuse does not discriminate. It is not gender-specific and affects people of all races and cultures, regardless of how much money they have or what neighborhood they live in.
Abuse in a relationship can be difficult for anyone to talk about. Therefore, it is important for everyone to have a better understanding of the signs of abuse, how to get involved in preventing abuse and the resources available to those who experience such abuse.
In 2008, by a unanimous decision, the U.S. Senate approved and declared the first week of February as "National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Week." In an effort to raise awareness, the Family Advocacy Program is now offering educational seminars to all schools, agencies and all of our families on an as-requested basis.
For more information or to schedule a seminar please call Ms. Valerie Seitz at 634-0433.
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