Relationship Violence Teens College students

Relationship violence Domestic violence Domestic abuse Intimate partner violence or battering Motivation of abusive relationships are power and control, not anger.

Recognizing abuse Know the signs You may be a victim of abuse if you’re in a relationship with someone who: Looks at you or acts in ways that scare you Acts jealous or possessive Accuses you of being unfaithful Tries to control how you spend your time Tries to control who you talk to or where you go

Recognizing abuse Know the signs con’t Tries to control what you wear Wants you to get permission to make everyday decisions Gets angry when using drugs or alcohol Scares you by driving recklessly Threatens to kill him or herself/you

Characteristics of an abusive relationship include: Someone who hits, kicks, shoves, slaps, or chokes you Threatens you with violence or a weapon Forces you to have sexual intercourse Forces you to engage in sexual acts against your will Calls you names, puts you down, insults you

Characteristics of an abusive relationship include con’t Stops you from seeing family or friends Destroys your property Blames you for his/her violent behavior and tells you that you deserve it. Denies the abusive behavior Tries to force you to drop charges Tries to prevent you from calling the police or seek medical care

Think of leaving an abusive relationship? Create a safety plan- Arrange a safety signal with a friend Call the police if necessary

Think of leaving an abusive relationship? Keep communications private- Telephone- be cautious when using a cell phone. Abuser can intercept calls using a scanner. Use a land line when relaying sensitive information to friends and family. Be aware of controlling use of cell phone- Abuser may use frequent cell phone conversations or text as a way to monitor or control activities

Think of leaving an abusive relationship? Computer use- Use a Web-based program for email Gmail, Hotmail, and Yahoo mail offer private accounts. Outlook express, Netscape Mail and Eudora store sent and received emails on your computer. Store files on the internet (IBackup and Hyperoffice) Also, store documents as attachments on private email programs.

Think of leaving an abusive relationship Change your password often Clear your web browser history Clear your document history

Where to find help! National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-safe or 1-800-799-7233 Provides crisis intervention Doctor or hospital emergency room Books and online resources www.mayoclinic.com