There's a fine line...adolescent dating violence and prevention

Abstract

Domestic violence is a paramount issue in society today. One component of this is the violence associated with dating and interpersonal relationships in the teen years. Current research demonstrates that a significant percentage of teens have experienced some degree of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from a dating partner. Pediatric nurses may interface with teens before, during, and after violent episodes. It is important for nurses to know the definitions of dating violence and rape, data about the incidence and prevalence of this issue, risk factors for violence in intimate relationships, dating violence myths, and the potential impact of youth dating violence. Youth perceptions and current research must be analyzed to frame current and potential interventions to reduce teen dating violence. Pediatric nurses have an integral role in counseling teens, ensuring youth safety, and preventing violence in the adolescent years.