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Dating Abuse
"Please realize that these things DO happen. You may think to yourself 'oh that will never be me' and then suddenly you find yourself in a bad relationship, and a scary situation."
- Caity, survivor of a violent dating relationship
"Violence should never be an option in a relationship, and if someone thinks it is, then it's time to get out of that relationship. I just hope the teens of Utah and all of America can be strong enough to know that."
- Wyatt, high school student
If you or someone you love is in a violent relationship, call these FREE hotlines open 24 hours a day/7 days a week.
Utah Domestic Violence Link Line
1-800-897-LINK (5465)
Rape & Sexual Assault Crisis Line
1-888-421-1100 |
What is Dating Violence?
Dating violence is verbal, emotional, physical, and/or sexual abuse in a dating relationship. A dating relationship is romantic or intimate in nature and not just a casual relationship.
What are the warning signs that someone is in a violent relationship?
Victims
- Sudden changes in appearance
- Avoids contact with family and friends
- Spends all of free time with abuser
- Cries a lot; moody
- Is very stressed with
physical symptoms
- Sudden changes in behavior
- Defends abuser and his/her actions
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Abusers
- Sudden and drastic mood swings
- Acts macho or cocky
- Jealous and controlling
- Cruelty to animals and/or children
- History of battering
- Constantly checking on partner
- Blames others for their problems
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What should you do if you're in a violent dating relationship?
- Decide that any abuse is too much
- Tell someone you are being abused
- Document your injuries
- Call a local hotline for help
- Fill out a personalized safety plan
- Remember that it is NOT your
fault you are being abused
How can you help a loved one who is in a violent dating relationship?
- Learn all you can about abuse
- Teach your loved one about abuse
- Document the injuries you see
- Call a local hotline for
more resources
- Listen to your loved one
- Be patient!
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"Teen Dating Violence: It Happens in Utah"