College Dating Violence and Abuse Poll, 2011

Key Findings

  • A significant number of college women are victims of violence and abuse.
    • 43% of dating college women report experiencing some violent and abusive dating behaviors including physical, sexual, tech, verbal or controlling abuse.
    • Over one in five college women (22%) report actual physical abuse, sexual abuse or threats of physical violence.
    • 52% of college women report knowing a friend who has experienced violent and abusive dating behaviors including physical, sexual, tech, verbal or controlling abuse.
  • More than half (57%) of college students who report having been in an abusive dating relationship said it occurred in college.
  • College students do not know how to help their friends and themselves get out of abusive relationships.
    • 58% of college students say they don’t know how what to do to help someone who is a victim of dating abuse.
    • 38% of college students say they don’t know how to get help for themselves on campus if they were a victim of dating abuse.
    • More than half of all college students (57%) say it is difficult to identify dating abuse.
  • Sharing passwords can increase digital dating abuse among college students.
    • One in three (36%) dating college students has given a dating partner their computer, email, or social network passwords and these students are more likely to experience digital dating abuse.

About the Poll

Fifth & Pacific Companies, Inc. (formerly Liz Claiborne Inc.) commissioned Knowledge Networks to conduct a survey of college students. The objectives of this project are to:

  • Identify the prevalence of dating abuse among college students;
  • Better understand their attitudes and perceptions about
  • dating violence and abuse;
  • Explore knowledge of warning signs and where to seek help; and
  • Examine reactions to dating abuse experienced as bystanders.

Get the Full Report

Download the full report for more information on dating abuse among college students.