179. Teen Dating Violence: The Role of Pediatric Clinicians

Did you know that 1 in 3 young people in the US have experienced or survived dating abuse? In a candid and crucial conversation on Pediatric Meltdown, host Dr. Lia Gaggino is joined by guest Dr. Lenore Jarvis to tackle the sensitive issue of adolescent relationship abuse (ARA). From identifying red flags to discussing prevention strategies and resources, this eye-opening episode provides essential insights for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals working with adolescents. Dr. Jarvis will take a deep-dive into the different types of ARA, the power dynamics at play, and the impact of abuse on mental and physical health will highlight the importance of documentation, trauma-informed care, and healing-centered engagement, emphasizing the holistic experience of addressing trauma. With the imperative need for universal screening and education, and the complexities of navigating disclosures and mandatory reporting, our episode provided essential guidance for healthcare professionals. This episode is another example of Dr. Gaggino’s never ending dedication to unravel critical issues affecting pediatric care, empowering clinicians to make a positive impact on the lives of young people.

[00:33 -15:23] Understanding the Impact of Adolescent Relationship Abuse (ARA) on Teen Health

• Adolescents experiencing ARA are at an increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• Victims of adolescent relationship abuse may suffer from mental health issues, including depression.
• There is a notable link between ARA and suicidality in teenagers, potentially leading to life-threatening situations.
• Adolescent relationship abuse often leads to increased school dropout rates, affecting education

[15:24 - 27:55] Strategies for Healthcare Professionals to Support Teens in Abusive Relationships

• ARA strategies must respect a teen's comfort and safety in sharing, not always certain in a clinic.
• Adolescents' confidentiality is vital, needing careful management by healthcare workers.
• Feelings of isolation and shame can deter teens from seeking help or revealing abuse.
• Offering ARA resources during visits offers consistent support, regardless of disclosure.

[27:56 - 42:08] Effective Approaches to Adolescent Relationship Abuse Disclosure

• Providers encourage teens to report abuse by discussing common issues.
• Healthcare pros must immediately validate a teen's ARA disclosure.
• Careful measures protect intimate violence reports in patient records.
• Keeping the abuser from patient files is vital to the teen's safety and privacy.

[43:09 - 55:59] Implementing Early Educational Strategies for Healthy Relationships

• Elementary education focuses on identifying traits of positive and negative friendships.
• Teaching young kids about good relationship dynamics prepares them for future romantic talks.
• Talks on healthy romance in adolescence build on earlier friend relationship lessons.
• Early healthy relationship education equips children to handle teen romantic challenges.

[56:00 - 01:07:08] Closing segment Takeaway

Links to resources mentioned on the show

Healing Centered Engagement:

The Future of Healing: Shifting From Trauma Informed Care to Healing Centered Engagement

Local Resources

State Coalitions: