WHAT PARENTS NEED TO KNOW 

Each year millions of people are affected by domestic violence. Girls and young women between the ages of 16 and 24 experience the highest rate of intimate partner violence – nearly triple the national average. Teens from all types of homes, families, cultures, and backgrounds experience teen dating violence. Victims include both males and females. Violence can occur in both heterosexual and homosexual relationships. Yet many parents remain uninformed. Over 80% of parents reportedly either don't know if teen dating violence is a concern or believe that it is not an issue. (www.loveisrespect.org)  It is most definitely an issue.  Parents need to be aware, children first example of a healthy or unhealthy relationship will be between their parents regardless if the parents reside in the home together or not.