Citation

Fredland NM, Ricardo IB, Campbell JC, Sharps PW, Kub JK, Yonas MA. J. School Violence 2005; 4(2): 95-114.

Affiliation

School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J202v04n02_06

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article reports qualitative findings of seven focus groups that illuminate the phenomenon of dating and dating violence from the perspective of the young adolescent. This study was part of a larger intervention project, "An Arts-Based Initiative for the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls," a collaboration of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Johns Hopkins University, School of Nursing. Concepts of interest included: dating norms, ecological factors, elements of healthy and unhealthy relationships, and prevention strategies. Four themes emerged: respect versus disrespect, influence friends, cost and benefit of sexual activity and violence as an accept-able response. The implications of this data highlight the need for school personnel to increase their awareness and understanding of the challenges middle school youth face. Dating violence prevention programs should he designed accordingly.