Exploration of a methodology aimed at exploring the characteristics of teenage dating violence and preliminary findings

PurposeThe aim of this study was to explore a novel approach toward investigating violence in adolescent dating relationships by administering a reflective survey to female college students.Research HypothesisResults from the Danger Assessment (DA) tool and the Abuse Assessment Screen (AAS) will be highly correlated with concepts from the Theory of Female Adolescents' Safety as Determined by the Dynamics of the Circle (TFASDC).DesignA descriptive cross-sectional survey of 188 female college students was conducted.SettingThis study was carried out in a Northeastern academic university and health center.Main Research Variables and MeasurementMain research variables and measurement included the AAS, the DA, and concepts from the TFASDC.FindingsOne in three participants reported dating violence on the DA; and one in five, on the AAS. Nine percent of the sample reported forced sex on the DA. Concepts from the TFASDC correlated to dating violence include the following: low scores on group belonging, increased number of sex and/or dating partners, dating an older boy, and time in relationship.ConclusionThe TFASDC holds promise for use as both a risk- and a strength-based assessment in teenagers, with the ultimate goal of fostering the development of healthy relationships.