For more information about the Siletz Tribe, please visit ctsi.nsn.us. February is…. TEEN DATING VIOLENCE AWARENESS What is Dating Violence? What’s Happening Dating violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used to exert power and control over a dating partner. Calling dating violence a pattern doesn't mean the first instance of abuse is not dating violence. It just recognizes that dating violence usually involves a series of abusive behaviors over a course of time. Feb 4th—It’s Time To Talk Day Every relationships is different, but the one thing that is common to most abusive dating relationships is that the violence escalates over time and becomes more and more dangerous for the young victim. Feb 14th—Happy Valentine’s Day! Feb 11th—Wear ORANGE for Respect Who Experiences Dating Violence? Any teen or young adult can experience violence, abuse or unhealthy behaviors in their dating relationships. A relationship may be serious or casual, monogamous or not, short-term or long-term. Dating abuse does not discriminate – it does not see gender, sexual identity, economic status, ethnicity or religious preference. What Does Dating Violence Look Like? Physical Abuse: Any intentional use of physical force with the intent to cause fear or injury, like hitting, shoving, biting, strangling, kicking or using a weapon. Ten Warning Signs of Abuse  Checking your cell phone or email without permission  Constantly putting you down  Extreme jealousy or insecurity  Explosive temper  Isolating you from family or friends  Making false accusations  Mood swings  Physically hurting you in any way  Possessiveness  Telling you what to do Verbal or Emotional Abuse: Non-physical behaviors such as threats, insults, constant monitoring, humiliation, intimidation, isolation or stalking. Sexual Abuse: Any action that impacts a person’s ability to control their sexual activity or the circumstances in which sexual activity occurs, including rape, coercion or restricting access to birth control. Digital Abuse: Use of technologies and/or social media networking to intimidate, harass or threaten a current or ex-dating partner. This could include demanding passwords, checking cell phones, cyber bullying, sexting, excessive or threatening texts or stalking on Facebook or other social media. If you or a loved one is in a violent relationship, please get help. Contact the CARE Program at (541) 444-9679. Visit loveisrespect for more information, chat with a peer advocate online, call 866.331.9474 or text "loveis" to 22522. Confidential ~ Culturally-specific services ~ 541-444-9679 Find us on Facebook to keep updated on news and events! www.facebook.com/SiletzCARE www.facebook.com/SiletzCARE February 2015 • Siletz฀News฀ • 5