Abstract
PurposeTeen dating violence (TDV) is a global public health and safety issue causing health impacts to youth people. This study aimed to examine: (1) the impact of the pandemic on TDV victimisation rates and (2) socioecological factors associated with sustained risk for TDV victimisation during the first year of COVID-19.MethodsData are from an ongoing randomised controlled trial of a TDV prevention programme in Texas (n=2768). We conducted annual assessments in 2019–2021. We used regression modelling to assess demographic, individual, peer and family factors associated with TDV risks.ResultsTDV rates declined from 11.9% in 2019 to 5.2% in 2021. While demographic, peer and family/household factors were not associated with TDV victimisation during the pandemic, individual-level factors (ie, early sexual debut, substance use, acceptance of violence and prior TDV involvement) were related to COVID-era risks. Only early sexual debut was uniquely linked to TDV victimisation risk the first year of COVID-19.ConclusionsWhile TDV rates declined during the pandemic, previous victimisation, substance use and early sexual debut remained potent risks for relationship harm.
Funder
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
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