Safe Passage: Teen dating abuse
*Story based on actual client files . Names have been changed.
It was the last day of presenting at one of the local high schools and the topic was “Teen Dating Abuse.” Throughout the presentation, the Safe Passage Advocate facilitated discussions about what teen dating violence is, the different types of abuse, and what are the warning signs. At the end of the presentation as the classroom was emptying out, a girl came up to the Safe Passage Advocate and asked if she could talk with her privately.
After everyone left the room, the girl, Rachel said, “I think one of my co-workers is in an abusive relationship. After hearing about what you said the warning signs are, I’m afraid she’s really in trouble.” Rachel told the Advocate she wanted to help her, but didn’t know what to do.
Safe Passage’s Teen Advocate responded by saying that getting informed is the right first step.
“You can let her know you’re there for her if she wants to talk,” the Advocate said. “But also let her know about our agency and how we can help her confidentially.” The Advocate gave Rachel a crisis line card and talked about how difficult it can be to talk with someone about their intimate relationship, especially if it is unhealthy because there is always a chance of losing that friendship.
Data from the 2015 Idaho Youth Risk Behaviors Survey indicates that in Idaho, 22 percent of females and 3 percent of males experienced sexual dating violence in the last 12 months and 13 percent of females and 5 percent of males experienced physical dating violence. In addition, 31 percent of female students and 21 percent of males students surveyed said they were electronically bullied in the last 12 months.
Safe Passage provides free educational presentations to groups of youth in the five Northern counties of Idaho. We also offer advocacy to teenagers and their families and can meet youth at schools and other public agencies to provide one-on-one support for addressing dating and sexual violence. Our classroom curriculum covers everything from healthy relationships and safe technology practices to dating violence and abuse intervention.
We are currently working to implement a popular and effective bystander training program called Green Dot in local high schools. You can make a financial donation to Safe Passage to support the Teen Outreach Program, as well as donations of clothing, household goods, etc. to the Safe Passage’ Thrift Store at 848 North Fourth St. in Coeur d’Alene.
If you or someone you know needs help, call (208) 664-9303 or visit safepassageid.org.