Nature and Dynamics of Teen Dating Violence

Dating and romantic relationships can be a healthy and exciting part of adolescent development. However, there are also possibilities for unhealthy or abusive relationships to develop. This training will allow participants to better understand the dynamics of intimate partner violence as it applies to teen relationships. We will review current research, explore the various ways that physical, sexual, mental, emotional, and physical abuse show up in adolescent relationships, including how dating violence uniquely impacts LGBTQ+ youth. Participants will also learn tools and approaches for what they can do to support youth who have experienced dating violence including ways to have conversations about healthy relationships, consent, and the differences between love and jealousy.

Learning Objectives

As a result of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Understand current research on intimate partner violence as it related to adolescents and young adults

• Identify ways that various forms of abuse show up in teen relationships

• Describe how dating violence uniquely impacts LGBTQ+ youth

• Practice concrete tools and approaches for how to support those impacted by dating violence

• Apply ways to have conversations about healthy relationships, consent, and the differences between love and jealousy