Dating violence - meaning and definition
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Definition
Dating violence is physical, sexual, emotional or digital abuse within a dating relationship, including between teenagers and young adults.
At a glance
- Physical, sexual, emotional or digital abuse within a dating relationship.
- It affects teenagers and young adults as well as older people.
- Warning signs include extreme jealousy, demanding passwords and put-downs.
- It can be overlooked when a relationship is new, casual or between young people.
- Controlling behaviour framed as love is still a warning sign.
In detail
Dating violence follows the same patterns as other intimate partner violence but can be overlooked because the relationship is new, casual or between young people. Warning signs include extreme jealousy, checking a partner's phone, demanding passwords, pressure around sex and put-downs.
Young people may not recognise these behaviours as abuse, especially when they are framed as signs of love. Education about healthy relationships, and trusted adults who listen without judgement, make it easier to seek help.
In a sentence
- The school ran a session on dating violence and what healthy relationships look like.
- Demanding to see her phone every night was an early sign of dating violence.
Common questions
Is jealousy a sign of love?
A little jealousy is a normal feeling, but extreme jealousy, checking a partner's phone or limiting who they see are signs of control, not love.
What can a young person do if they are worried about their relationship?
Talking to a trusted adult, friend, school counsellor or a relationship abuse helpline can help. They should listen without judgement. If someone is in danger, call the local emergency number.