Teens Beating Teens: A Look Inside Teen Dating Abuse

A problem that is becoming more and more common is teen dating abuse. The big issue of domestic violence has spilled over onto our kids with more and more girls getting abused by their boyfriends. Is this a problem that people isn't talking about, don't want to talk about, or want to stay blissfully ignorant that this is really going on. The fact is, it is going on and it must be dealt with.

Here are some statistics for you based on a study provided by Liz Clairborne Inc; 13% of girls in a relationship reported physical abuse. 1 in 4 teen girls, who has been in a relationship, has been forced to perform sexual acts, and 1 in 5 have been threatened. The hard facts; our girls are getting physically and sexually abused by boys that we probably trust to date them. There are probably a large number of them who are too afraid to tell anyone about it.

We all know about abuse. Either it has happened to us or we know someone who has gone through it before. The victim thinks that it is their fault; that they deserve what it happening to them. The abuser is very effective at lowering the victims self-worth before the physical aspect even takes place. The victim starts to feel worthless, ashamed, embarrassed, hurt, and a slew of other negative feelings towards themselves that prevents them from stepping up, speaking out, and seeking help for themselves.

Just think of a teen going through this. They are already at a tender age; dealing with school, the awkward adjustment of adolescence, dealing with peers and trying to fit in, pressures about sex, drugs, and alcohol, and planning for their futures. Now add domestic abuse on top of all of that.

What is going on in our society when teens start abusing their girlfriends? I never understood domestic abuse or why men would hit their wives; but amongst teens? I am baffled and incredibly sad by this trend. Are young adult boys immolating what they see at home? Do they witness the male figures in their lives hit, scream at, and belittle women? And, what does this say about this their futures as husbands and fathers?