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Teenage relationship abuse is a serious issue, with statistics showing that 1 in 4 teenage girls have been physically abused by a boyfriend. This kind of abuse consists of coercive and controlling behaviors that mirror patterns seen in domestic abuse. It is crucial to recognize the indicators of teenage relationship abuse, such as changes in behavior, unexplained injuries, and academic decline. Supporting teenagers with safe environments, positive role models, and access to engaging activities is key in preventing such abuse. By understanding the signs and providing proper support, we can work towards preventing teenage relationship abuse and promoting healthy relationships among adolescents.
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1 in 4 teenage girls have been hit by a boyfriend (with one in nine reporting severe physical violence) Home Office 2010 18 % of boys reported some form of physical partner violence. Home Office 2010 Nearly 75% of girls and 50% boys have reported some sort of emotional partner abuse. NSPCC & Bristol University 2009
Teenage Relationship Abuse Teenage relationship abuse consists of the same patterns of coercive and controlling behaviour as domestic abuse. • Controlling behaviour is: a range of acts designed to make a person subordinate and/or dependent by isolating them from sources of support, exploiting their resources and capacities for personal gain, depriving them of the means needed for independence, resistance and escape and regulating their everyday behaviour. • Coercive behaviour is: an act or a pattern of acts of assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten their victim.”* *This definition includes ‘honour’ based violence, female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage
Achievement at school • Having a safe haven • Support from positive role models • Assertiveness (both internal and external) • Sense of physical, emotional, and economic security • Belief that others have high expectations of them • Participation in engaging and challenging activities • Sense of belonging/safety structure
Indicators of teenage relationship abuse • No longer socialising with their close circle of friends, • Slipping behind academically • missing school • Being late for school • Arriving early / staying late to avoid abuser • constantly checking their phone, • being withdrawn and quieter than usual, • being angry, and becoming irritable when asked how they are doing, • making excuses for their boyfriend or girlfriend, • having unexplained scratches or bruises, • showing changes in mood or personality • using drugs or alcohol. • Inappropriate sexual behaviour / language / attitudes • Depression • Pregnancy • Self-harm • Eating disorders or problems sleeping • Symptoms of post-traumatic stress • Bullying / being bullied • Very gendered expectations of career and achievement
