Dating violence is emotional, physical or mental abuse within the bounds of a romantic or potential relationship, according to the National Center for Victims of Crime. Sometimes, good relationships turn sour, but no one deserves to be in a relationship where they are the victim of violence. There are certain things you can do to prevent dating violence in your relationship as well as with people you care about.
Some people doubt whether or not they are even in a violent dating situation and become confused by their relationship. Violence hotlines are an effective resource for getting help with your relationship and identifying possible violence or other abuse, according to the National Center for Victims of Crime. If you don’t want to talk to a stranger, find someone you trust, such as a family member, close friend or even a school counselor, and talk to them about your relationship.
Some dating violence occurs on the first or second date when two people aren’t necessarily a couple. Date rape is an example of the type of physical violence that can occur early on during dating. To avoid these kinds of situations, avoid pairing off with just one person on a first date. Double or group date with people you know in order to avoid being alone with someone you don’t know.