When Will Adolescents Tell Someone About Dating Violence Victimization?

Abstract

This study examined factors that influence help-seeking among a diverse sample of adolescents who experienced dating violence. A sample of 57 high school students in an urban community reported on the prevalence and characteristics of dating violence in their relationships. Someone observing a dating violence incident and a survivor’s attaching an emotional meaning to the event significantly influenced adolescents to talk to someone. When dating violence occurred in isolation, survivors were more likely to receive no support from others in the aftermath of the incident. Differences between boys’ and girls’ help-seeking and implications for dating violence intervention and prevention programming are discussed.