Just Released!

A study was released today that surveyed 1,233 teens and 500 parents, about abuse in dating relationships as our economy struggles through a recession. Some of the major findings of the study showed that almost half of the teens have been personally victimized by controlling behaviors from their partner, almost 1/3 have been the victim of sexual abuse, physical abuse, or threats of physical abuse, also from their boyfriend or girlfriend, and 1/4 have experienced technology abuse from them.

What makes these findings even more alarming is that they seem to be tied to family’s economic situations. For example, 3/4 of teens said that their parents had gone through economic problems in the past year and almost half of that same group said that they had witnessed some form of violence or abuse between their parents. Of the teens that witnessed this abuse, 2/3 said that they had also experienced abuse in their own relationships—this is way too large a number!

The results of this study are very disturbing. They show that this recession not only affects adults, it also affects teens. Lack of money puts a lot of stress on families. Adults have to figure out how to make ends meet, which can lead to arguments, fights and violence between them. But sadly, everyone else in the home suffers too since we’re all witnesses to these troubles.

If you sense that some of these things are happening in your relationship, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Talk to someone you trust. Talk to your parents if you feel comfortable. And if a friend is experiencing abuse in their relationship, make sure to offer a helping hand. Just remember you are not alone; Break the Cycle can help.

See this short news clip about a teenage girl who experienced abuse in her relationship and expert suggestions on things you can do to stop abuse.