Among High-Risk Teens, Younger Boys May Be More Likely than Girls to be Victims of Dating Violence
A study of Pediatrics found that among teens previously exposed to violence in their homes or communities, boys may be just as likely as girls to be seriously injured by a romantic partner.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study, “Dating Violence and Injury among Youth Exposed to Violence” surveyed 1,149 boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 17 in Texas.
Its authors said dating violence changes significantly over relatively short periods of time based on gender during adolescence. Younger boys were more likely to report being injured by a dating partner, and also were more likely to report sexual victimization or forced intimate contact than younger girls. This pattern faded or reversed among older teens.
The study’s authors said dating violence prevention programs for at-risk teens should take into consideration age- and gender-related differences.