NCJ Number
220721
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 13 Issue: 12 Dated: December 2007 Pages: 1274-1295
Date Published
December 2007
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This article discusses young women’s experiences and understandings of dating and dating violence.
Abstract
The findings of this study are consistent with previous research that found that experiences of unwanted sexual attention, sexual coercion, and dating violence are common for young women. Young women in this study were aware that dating violence and domestic violence existed in the community, with a number being directly affected or knowing those who had such experiences. The findings confirm the practice experience that young women are unlikely to speak out about their boyfriends’ use of violence or seek help from formal services. The use of peer education and support, therefore, remains an important approach in responding to dating violence. Using a qualitative design, this study explores young women’s experiences of dating and dating violence, and how young women (those with and without experiences of violence) understand and make meaning of such violence. The intention in examining their understandings and meaning making is that they can contribute to identifying prevention and intervention strategies for dating violence. Also, the intention was to identify what was similar and/or different for young women compared with what is known about adult women living with violent partners. Tables, references