In a comprehensive study focused on understanding teen dating violence, July researchers released the National Survey on Teen Relationships and Intimate Violence (STRiV). This longitudinal study offers a trauma-informed lens to explore the intricacies of teen dating violence through detailed measures of victimization and perpetration.

According to the National Institute of Justice, which funded this research, high-level findings include:

• High overlap between victimization and perpetration. Over 84% of victims also reported perpetrating abuse, emphasizing that relationships that are characterized by violence typically involve mutual violence.
• No differences between teen boys and girls regarding victimization rates, but girls reported perpetrating more physical abuse than boys. Specifically, girls ages 15-18 reported perpetrating moderate threats or physical violence at more than three times the rate of boys ages 15-18, and serious psychological abuse at more than four times the rate of boys.

The study also drew correlections between household relationship norms and youth attitudes and behaviors regarding violence. Youths who experienced nurturing and supportive relationships with their parents displayed a significantly reduced tolerance for certain types of violence, notably violence targeting boyfriends. Additionally, in the span of one year, these youths were found to have a reduced likelihood of engaging in dating violence or experiencing it as survivors themselves. These insights from STRiV underscore the importance of cultivating safe and supportive environments for our youth.

Support for unhealthy relationships

It can be unsettling to recognize abusive behaviors in a relationship. Know that you are not alone, and there are people you can talk to.

• If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or practice a prepared safety plan.
• If you have experienced sexual assault and need to talk, RAINN is here for you. You can talk to someone from the National Sexual Assault Hotline online in English or Spanish, or over the phone at 800.656.HOPE (4673).
• If you are a teen or young adult, you can learn more about healthy relationships by visiting Love Is Respect or using their confidential hotline services.
• The National Domestic Violence Hotline also has a hotline for anyone experiencing domestic violence, seeking resources or information, or questioning unhealthy aspects of their relationship.

To speak with a trained support specialist, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673) or chat online in English at online.rainn.org or in Spanish at RAINN.org/es.