E
D
&
U
S
C
D
A
N
TION
E
R
T
,
S
G
U
DR
TECHNOLOGY
Today’s teens are increasingly reliant upon technology in their everyday lives. Cell phones and the internet provide teens with almost
constant communication. While technology has greatly improved teens’ ability to stay in touch with their friends, families, schools,
and communities, these new technologies can also present a challenge to service providers who work with teens experiencing dating
violence. In the hands of an abusive partner, the same tech devices and websites that connect teens can be turned into tools of abuse.
The privacy often means that high-tech abuse is hidden. Providers can help protect their teen clients by understanding the challenges
that technology presents and sharing strategies for teens to stay safe. (Refer to Tips for Educators, Service Providers and Parents.)
December 2008 Teen Dating Violence Technical Assistance Center
SELF-HARMING BEHAVIOR
In the course of working with victims and their families, you may encounter an individual that you suspect is “cutting.” Cutting is a
form of self-injurious behavior. The intent is not to end life, but to manage emotions which are too painful to express verbally. Cutters
often raise suspicion because of their tendency to wear long sleeves and/or long pants (to hide evidence of scars) even when it
contradicts the weather/season.
If you suspect that someone you are working with is participating in self-harming behavior, you may be reluctant to mention it. There
is a misconception that raising the question will somehow cause an individual to further harm him or herself. Such is not the case. It
is perfectly acceptable to express concern and explain what you are observing that caused your concern. Provide support to the
individual, not scolding or criticizing their actions. Encourage the person to seek help from a therapist with expertise in self-harm.
Though cutting is typically not a suicide attempt, a person with a history of cutting can present with symptoms of suicide ideation. In
such instances, it is imperative that the individual seek a psychiatric evaluation at a hospital.
Reference guide – Bodily Harm by Karen Conterio, Wendy Lede, Jennifer Bloom and Jennifer Kingsonbloom
EATING DISORDERS
An eating disorder is considered a psychological problem. It involves an unhealthy obsession with food, whether the obsession is
limiting intake, or whether the food obsession involves overindulging regularly. The most common eating disorders are linked with
body image, and most teens with eating disorders feel that they must take drastic measures to lose weight.
The three most common teen eating disorders are:
•
•
Anorexia nervosa
Bulimia nervosa
•
Binge eating (also called compulsive eating)
All three of these eating disorders can have unhealthy consequences, creating nutrient problems, growth problems, and weight
problems in teens. Weighing too little is a weight problem, as is rapid and excessive weight gain.
www.troubleteen101.com
Preventing eating disorders involves compassion and understanding. Nurturing your teen’s self-esteem and helping them develop
healthy attitudes about nutrition can help prevent an eating disorder.
Any form of sexual or physical abuse can lead to eating disorders. They can be a common factor in teens experiencing family issues,
problematic personal relationships and teens who have difficulty expressing their emotions.
LAKE COUNTY STATE’S ATTORNEY’S OFFICE • 2012
6
PARENT/TEACHER/COMMUNITY
community outreach - Teen Dating Violence: Parent/Teacher/Community Resources
29