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Relevance of Technology to the Nature, Prevalence and Impact of Adolescent Dating Violence and Abuse: A Research Synthesis

NCJ Number
248127
Journal
Aggression and Violent Behavior Volume: 19 Issue: 4 Dated: July/August 2014 Pages: 390-417
Author(s)
Karlie E. Stonard; Erica Bowen; Tony R. Lawrence; Shelley A. Price
Date Published
August 2014
Length
28 pages
Annotation
The paper presents the results of a literature review on the prevalence and impact of adolescent dating violence and abuse.
Abstract
This review of research examining the prevalence and impact of adolescent dating violence and abuse (ADVA) found a broad range of prevalence estimates for physical, psychological/emotional, and sexual dating violence in addition to abuse experienced or performed via ECT (electronic communication technology). In addition, the review found limited research exploring the impact of technology assisted adolescent dating violence and abuse (TAADVA) compared to that of traditional ADVA. The review also revealed that inconsistencies in prevalence reports were most likely due to the various measures and methods used to investigate ADVA. The primary purpose for this review was to evaluate and synthesize the research on the prevalence and impact of ADVA with a specific focus on the relevance of technology to adolescent romantic relationships and to those that are abusive. The review examined 56 studies that met the criteria for inclusion. The findings from the review suggest that ADVA and TAADVA are prevalent in a substantial number of adolescent romantic relationships, and that ECT provides a new means for the perpetration of ADVA rather than representing a new, unique form of abuse. Study limitations and implications for future research are discussed. Tables and references