Domestic Violence, A Growing Problem In Teenage Relationships

Domestic Violence is always a major problem around the holidays. Statistics show, one in three relationships is in some way abusive. But you may be troubled to know that teenage relationships can be

Wednesday, December 13th 2006, 10:11 am

By: News On 6

Domestic Violence is always a major problem around the holidays. Statistics show, one in three relationships is in some way abusive. But you may be troubled to know that teenage relationships can be just as abusive and it can start in the most subtle ways.

News on 6 anchor Tami Marler explains what some area kids are doing about it.

About 80 girls at Bixby High School got together Wednesday to take-on domestic violence prevention. A handful of students formed a group called 'TEAN', Teens Ending Abuse Now and those girls organized Wednesday's seminar.

Bixby Police helped to educate the students about the warning signs of relationship abuse and where they can turn for help. Bixby Police officer Erik Smoot: â€œsometimes domestic violence is abusive language. Sometimes it is neglect. There are several different kinds of abuse."

TEAN organizers hope to start new groups in other schools so they can educate and empower young people in their relationships.

The â€˜TEANâ€™ girls hope to start groups in other high schools. If you're interested you can call Donna Smith at Bixby High School at 366-2200.

Domestic Violence Intervention Services has a 24-hour crisis line. Call 585-3143 to find help or shelter. For more information about teenage relationships check out www.teenrelationships.org.