Local support services discuss importance of recognizing teen dating violence
February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, and local services are stressing the importance of providing services to the Valley's youth when needed.
8.2% of California’s 11th-grade students report being “hit, slapped, or physically hurt on purpose” by their partner in the past twelve months, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
Melissa Hawkins, a clinical supervisor for Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation said while they may not have specific numbers for Riverside County, the national statistics alone are concerning."
“In general, 1 in 3 teens in United States will have experienced some for of abuse, sexual, physical or emotional before they reach adulthood," Hawkins said.
The CDC found young women in California have the highest rate of abuse by a partner between the ages of 16 and 15 compared to all other age groups. Teens who identify as LGBTQ or who are racial or ethic minorities also experience more teen dating violence as well as all types of violence.
In the United States, over 70% of women and 60% of men first experienced intimate partner violence under the age of 25, according to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center.
Yvonne Bennett, a nurse coordinator for the Sexual Assault and Forensics Evaluation clinic said the importance of teen dating violence awareness and prevention is not talked about enough.
“Surprisingly enough, in the eight years that I’ve been doing this, this is the first time that is ever come up," Bennett said. "The awareness months, I think are vital to getting there word out there that this is happened and that there are resources.”
Bennett said she's especially seen the need for S.A.F.E.'s services in Riverside County.
If you or someone you know is in need of support services, don't hesitate to reach out to some of these contacts below.
Some Available Resources
Eisenhower Health Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE) Program: "The primary mission ... is to meet the needs of the sexual assault victim by providing an immediate, compassionate, and culturally sensitive, comprehensive medical and forensic evaluation by trained, professional nurse experts within the parameters of the California State Nurse Practice Act and agency policies."
- https://eisenhowerhealth.org/services/safe/
- (760) 837-8937
Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation - Betty Ford Center: "Harnessing science, love and the wisdom of lived experience, we are a force of healing and hope for individuals, families and communities affected by substance use and mental health conditions."
Barbara Sinatra Children's Center: "Dedicated to ensuring every child's right to a normal, healthy and secure childhood."
S.A.F.E. Clinic: "The SAFE Clinic offers a private, safe setting with a multidisciplinary staff dedicated to helping Riverside County residents 24 hours a day, seven days a week."
- https://ruhealth.org/medical-center/safe
- (951) 486-5514
