A new study by the National Council on Crime and Delinquency [PDF] lays out a disturbing picture, Poynter’s Al Tompkins points out in a recent Morning Meeting column.
The report calls interpersonal violence — physical, emotional or verbal abuse within a dating relationship — a “serious public health threat” affecting one in three teen girls.
“These studies also indicate that girls exposed to interpersonal violence show greater exposure to other forms of violence, greater propensity for unsafe sexual activity, and a higher incidence of substance abuse and suicide ideation,” according to the report, released in September.
Coverage of this issue could include candid interviews with teens about their dating experiences, tips from counselors and health officials about what to do if you’re in a dangerous relationship and places teens can go for help.
