Dating & Domestic Violence on Campus
College students experience dating violence at staggering rates and face unique obstacles in accessing services to escape an abusive relationship.
The Facts
- Women between the ages of 16 and 24 experience the highest rate of intimate partner violence.1
- Nearly one-third of college students report physically assaulting a dating partner in the previous 12 months.2
- As many as one quarter of female students experience sexual assault over the course of their college career.3
- Approximately 90% of victims of sexual assault on college campuses know their attacker.4
Obstacles Facing College Students
Students often have difficulty recognizing verbal and emotional abuse, or do not have enough experience in relationships to know that the abusive behavior is not normal or healthy. College students may feel trapped by the social networks and closed environment of many campuses. Away from home for the first time, students can become isolated from their personal support network and resources for help. Students that seek legal protection may also find themselves with few options if their state does not allow victims who are dating their abuser to obtain civil protection orders (also known as restraining orders).
Sexual Assault on Campus
Young women on college campuses are especially at risk of sexual assault and abuse. Victims of sexual assault face not only the threat of physical injury, unwanted pregnancy and contraction of sexually transmitted diseases, but also experience emotional and psychological trauma. Feelings of shame, embarassment and guilt, as well as confusion of what constitutes "sexual assault," discourage many female students from reporting the assault and seeking follow-up care.
Take Action
Addressing dating violence on college campuses requires proactive measures by administrators, policy makers, service-providing agencies and the larger community. Clearly defined reporting policies, a fair judicial process, and comprehensive, accessible services for victims are critical. However, students also need preventive education to better understand how to recognize an abusive relationship and the legal protections available to victims.
What Can I Do?
If you are going through a similar experience or know someone who is, Break the Cycle can help. Break the Cycle provides legal information, support and advocacy to young people, ages 12 to 24, and can help you learn about your options and legal rights. Our services are always free and confidential.
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