Warning Signs:

E-Newsletter Spring 2009

For all media inquiries, please contact 310.286.3383 or media@breakthecycle.org.

Celebrity News Puts Dating Violence
on the Forefront

Dear Friends,

The recent incident involving pop stars Chris Brown and Rihanna is flooding the news, bringing the shocking reality of teen dating violence to the nation’s attention. Much of the coverage focuses on the graphic details, feeding misconceptions about abuse without offering resources for help.

In response, Break the Cycle reached out to media to offer expertise and resources so that those who hear the story and recognize warning signs in their own relationships have a place to turn. We issued a media release following the incident and below is an excerpt:

Dating violence is not only dangerous but devastating to the long-term health and welfare of our nation’s youth . . . Fortunately, it can be prevented if we empower young people, who are forming their first relationships, to recognize the warning signs of abuse, understand healthy relationships and realize that some behaviors are not just wrong, they are illegal. The Safe Space (www.thesafespace.org) offers the following Warning Signs of Abuse and Safety Tips:

Warning Signs:

  • Extreme jealousy
  • Constant put-downs
  • Possessiveness or controlling behavior
  • Financial control
  • Regular false accusations
  • Isolation from friends and family

Safety Tips:

  • Be sure someone you trust knows where you are and what you are doing.
  • Carry a cell phone and a list of emergency contact numbers at all times.
  • Stay away from isolated places and try not to walk around alone.
  • Avoid places where the abuser and his/her friends and family are likely to be.
  • Keep the doors and windows locked when you are at home, especially if you are alone.
  • Identify a safe place to go in case of emergency—like a friend’s house.
  • Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.

Because of these efforts, more than a dozen media outlets have featured Break the Cycle.

It is vitally important to remember that escaping an abusive relationship is not easy, and victims of abuse need the support of friends and family. We hope this very sad and public example will open the door for teens to communicate openly about their relationships. You can help by talking directly and without judgment to the young people you care about most.

Join us by supporting Break the Cycle’s important work. Donate or volunteer today.

Sincerely,
Marjorie Gilberg
Executive Director

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