With funds from the CDC and in partnership with the Center for Victims and Pittsburgh Action Against Rape, as well as 40 middle schools in the Pittsburgh region, Dr. Miller and her team are studying whether the program might be helpful for middle school athletes. Half of the middle schools received the program (fall, winter and spring sports). Half did coaching as usual. They are now collecting one-year, follow-up information from the students who participated in the program. The goal is to see less sexual harassment, less homophobic teasing and more positive bystander behaviors. Results from the study should be available in early 2018.
In addition to related studies about healthy relationships (see box), Dr. Miller and her team also work with health care providers (including school nurses) to talk to their teen patients about the importance of respectful relationships. Abusive relationships are bad for the health of young people in many ways and can lead to depression, suicide, eating disorders, drug use, sexually transmitted infections and even pregnancy. The research from Dr. Miller’s team has focused on helping providers talk to their adolescent patients (and their parents) about healthy relationships. During a clinic visit, the provider will offer educational information to every young person (regardless of whether or not she or he is in an abusive relationship), saying that they are talking to all their patients about the importance of healthy, respectful relationships. Providers also say that the information may be useful to young people so they know how to help a friend. This approach has been well-received by youths. Studies by Dr. Miller’s team show that this approach of offering education during a clinic visit to all youths increases how much they know about relationship abuse. In some instances, for those experiencing abuse, the approach can reduce the likelihood of abuse. See Futures Without Violence for relevant materials (https://www.futures
withoutviolence.org/hanging-out-or-
hooking-up-2/).
Because adolescence is a time of change and growth, young people are also learning how to be in intimate relationships. They may need guidance that does not come from a parent or caregiver. If you are concerned about adolescents in your life or just want to make sure they know where they can get support or help, talk to a health care provider.
If you or someone you know needs free, confidential help, call the Teen Dating Violence hotline at 1-866-331-9474, text “loveis” to 22522 or go to https://www.loveisrespect.org/.
* https://www.avonfoundation.org/programs/domestic-violence/
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