This month couples are getting ready to express their feelings to the ones they love. But at the same time there is a topic that not many people like to address: abuse in teenage dating. It does not matter what day of the week it is, or what time of the year, everyday people in relationships get abused.
“Do not be in a position where you are alone without being able to get help,” Odum said. “Let people know where you are.”
The common perception that girls mature faster than guys, adds on to the view of why dating violence might also occur.
“Girls are perceived as older than they are, so they go for the older guys. And when the ladies are put in the situation, they do not have the confidence or experience to address the issue,” Odum said.
Odum herself has not had to handle a case of a student being physically abused. Although, she has had to deal with a student who was being verbally abused.
“I cannot over-emphasize self-respect. No one has the right to treat you that [harmful] way,” Odum said.
If a student is being abused in any way by anyone they are in a relationship with, if the student really wants help, they can go to guidance and report it to any of the guidance counselors so that they can talk to the other person.
“People will treat you the way you allow them to treat you,” Odum said, “You have to speak up for yourself.”