Domestic violence in teenage intimate relationships: Young people’s views on awareness, prevention, intervention and regaining one’s sense of wellbeing

Abstract

AimsDomestic violence (DV) and abuse in teenage intimate relationships, or teenage partner violence (TPV), is a prevalent but hidden issue, the impact of which can include mental health problems, self-harm and suicidal thoughts. This study sought to gain young people’s views on awareness, prevention, intervention and regaining a sense of wellbeing following the experience of an unhealthy relationship.Method310 mainstream school pupils aged 14–18 (161 girls and 149 boys) completed questionnaires and were subsequently invited to participate in semi-structured interviews. In addition, four young women with personal experience of TPV who had sought help from a DV prevention organisation participated in semi-structured interviews.FindingsParticipants felt there is a lack of awareness and understanding of TPV amongst young people and adults, as well as uncertainty and confusion amongst young people over healthy/unhealthy behaviours. There was a desire for earlier, more regular, more interactive, more relevant and more accessible education and information, for someone to talk to confidentially and for help to build confidence and self-esteem.LimitationsThere was little cultural or ethnic diversity amongst the participants in this study. No young men known to have personal experience of TPV were represented.ConclusionTPV is a prevalent but hidden problem that affects both girls and boys and can have a serious negative impact on a young person’s mental health and wellbeing. Educational psychologists are well placed to help schools address the issues related to TPV highlighted in this study.