A recent study published in Pediatrics on May 2, 2023 summarized 38 studies on the long term effects of dating violence among teens.
Teen dating violence (TDV) was defined as “a variety of harmful partner-directed behavior (including physical, sexual, psychological, and cyber violence) that occurs within adolescent romantic relationships.”
TDV was linked to “substance use and poor conflict and anger management skills.” Physical violence was present in 20% of cases, sexual violence in 9%, and psychological violence in 17-88%, depending on the population.
Females are negatively affected more than males, but both can be victims of dating violence. Other studies have shown that teen boys and girls are equally likely to engage in one or more of these forms of “violence,” however, boys are much more likely to commit sexual violence.
Some of the long-term effects of TDV include problems with “mental and physical health, recurrence of violence in intimate relationships, and high-risk behaviors (i.e., marijuana and sexual behaviors).”
Mental health problems from TDV included “depression and anxiety” (both boys and girls but especially in girls), suicidal thoughts, “post-traumatic stress disorder, and binge eating disorders.” Sexual risk behavior (unprotected sex) increased in victims of physical and psychological abuse.
The bottom line is that teen dating violence is common and carries risks including in the long run. Teens deserve education about this problem and be provided with counseling when needed.
Peter M. Hartmann, MD
Family Medicine & Psychiatry
