Examining Parental and Peer Social Support as a Buffer Between Dating Violence Victimization and Negative Outcomes Among Female Adolescents

• NCJ Number: 243572
• Journal: Women & Criminal Justice Volume: 23 Issue: 3 Dated: July - September 2013 Pages: 232-246
• Author(s): Tara N. Richards; Kathryn A. Branch
• Date Published: July 2013
• Length: 15 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study investigated the potential buffer effects of social support for adolescent girls who have been victimized by a dating partner.

Abstract

Social support has been linked to a lower rate of negative outcomes among adult women who have experienced intimate partner violence victimization; however, little is known about the potential buffer effects of social support for adolescent girls who have been victimized by a dating partner. Using data from the Toledo Adolescent Relationship Study (n=495), the authors examine the impact of social support from parents and peers on negative outcomes, including low self-esteem, depression, and unhealthy weight control, among female youth who have experienced physical and/or emotional dating violence victimization (n=198). Multivariate regression analyses demonstrate that social support from parents and peers protects against low self-esteem but not against depression or unhealthy weight control. Implications for dating violence programming and future research are addressed. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.