Are You a Victim of Dating Abuse

Adolescence is characterized as a time for young adults to prepare themselves for social and cultural changes, forming new bonds and explore deeper, more meaningful relationships. It is the time for them to acquire new skills and get acquainted with the realities of life. At this crucial period in their life, many adolescents get caught in the trap of dating abuse.

Dating abuse is a form of relationship violence where a person is sexually, emotionally or physically abused by the person that they have been dating. While any person of any age can be a victim of dating abuse, adolescents are most often associated with it.

Research shows that most adolescents undergo dating abuse in one form or another and that they fail to recognize that they are experiencing relationship violence. They often do not talk to their parents about the abuse they face at the hands of their loved one. They start believing that all relationships are unhealthy and relationship violence is normal. The media too has a deep impact on them they start believing in the unrealistic relationships portrayed on TV and movies.

The only way to ward off dating abuse is to be informed about it. Know that you are experiencing relationship violence if the person you are dating

1.    Tries to influence you to withdraw from your family
2.   Hits you during an argument or when you want to do something that they do not want you to do.
3.   Is extremely possessive, jealous and hates it when you talk to anyone other than them.
4.    Tries to control all aspects of your life.
5.    Insults you in front of others or in private.
6.    Does not let you break up with them.
7.    Forces their way on you even if it’s against your wishes.
8.    Makes you take drugs, alcohol etc.
9.   Is short tempered and becomes violent easily.
10.   Starts stalking you when you try to break up with them.

It is not necessary that you have to experience all these to be a victim of dating abuse. Any of these that makes you really uncomfortable may be good enough for you to be alarmed. Seek your parents’ help if you are really concerned. If you feel that they cannot help you, seek out a counselor who can guide you through this difficult situation. Whatever you do, do not feel helpless. Things do not have to be this way and you deserve better.