Dating abuse is a continuing pattern of controlling or unhealthy behaviour from a partner, such as a boyfriend or a girlfriend. Young people of all ages can experience the same types of abuse as adults. There is more information on different types of abuse.
Safe relationships are formed when you are not threatened with or placed at risk of experiencing harm. Dating abuse can happen to people of any age. Dating relationships may be casual or serious, short-term or long-term, offline or online.
Dating abuse is not uncommon. A report by the NSPCC found that:
Due to the increased likelihood to use technology, teens may also be at risk of experiencing digital abuse. Digital abuse involves the use of technology to intimidate, threaten, bully, and control someone. This may happen by:
Childline have lots of practical information on digital and mobile safety.
You may find that your school, college or university attendance, experience and performance is impacted by your dating relationship. You might also find it difficult to ask for help or support because those who work at your school, college or university might also know the person who is harming you.
Adolescence can be a difficult time for young people transitioning to adulthood and beginning to take on increasing responsibilities. This might mean that you have left home for the first time, are further away from your family and are living with or relying upon someone abusive toward you.
Domestic abuse for individuals of any age is taken seriously, teens who are experiencing dating abuse are entitled to support:
AMIS is here to help any male over 16-years-old in Scotland who is experiencing dating abuse. We understand that it can be difficult to ask for help or support. If you are finding this difficult, please think about asking a responsible adult or friend to contact us on your behalf.
If there is an emergency, call 999. You can also contact the Police by calling the non-emergency 101 service.
