Outreach program targets teen dating violence

by Megan Baldino (mbaldino@wsbt.com)

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By WSBT News1

Story Created: Apr 3, 2009 at 4:31 AM EST

Story Updated: Apr 7, 2009 at 7:28 AM EST

SOUTH BEND — There is a widespread problem among teenagers that parents often don't realize exists, dating violence.

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Even if a teen isn't a victim, there's a good chance they know someone who is.

"One in four teens reports being in an abusive relationship and one on three reports they know someone whose been abused," said Sabrina Lute of Sex Offense Services of Madison Center in South Bend.

For the last few weeks Lute has been visiting high school health classes talking about teen dating violence and how to prevent it.

"Like any form of abuse, abuse is about power," said Lute.

The recent high profile case of Rhianna and Chris Brown has brought new attention to the issue.

Lute says it shows abuse can happen to anyone at anytime, and the cycle applies to everyone.

"Because relationships are relationships and we care about that person, we want to make up," said Lute explaining why Rhianna likely went back to Brown.

Lute says any student who is in an abusive relationship should tell someone and try to get help.

A recent study by "Break the Cycle" shows Indiana gets a "B" grade when it comes to protecting teen victims of dating violence, but the study says Indiana could be doing more.

If you need help, the local crisis hot-line number is 289-HELP.

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