Abuse in teenage relationships

This paper explores the prevalence of abuse in teenage relationships and the various types of abuse that can occur. It also looks at the effects of abuse on teenagers and how to get help if you are a victim of abuse.

Abuse in teenage relationships is a serious problem that can have lasting effects on the victim. According to the National Teen Dating Violence Hotline, one in three teens in the United States will experience some form of physical violence from a partner at least once during their dating relationship 1 . This includes things like hitting, kicking, or other forms of physical harm.

Abuse is not just physical violence. It can also be emotional or psychological. This can include things like name-calling, put-downs, threats, or controlling behavior. Manipulating or gaslighting a partner are also forms of emotional abuse 2 .

Abuse can have a lasting effect on the victim. Some common effects of abuse include low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and feeling helpless or trapped 3 . Victims of abuse may also turn to substance abuse as a way to cope with the pain 4 .