Dating Violence is the act of controlling and/or abusive behavior in a romantic relationship. It can happen to both males and females of any race, religion, or sexual orientation.
Controlling behavior includes:
- Frequently checking up on you to know where you are or who you're with
- Deciding what you wear or who you hang out with
- Limiting your normal activities so you can be with him/her more often
Types of abuse include:
- Physical: Slapping, kicking, choking, spitting, punching, pinching or pushing
- Emotional/Verbal: Humiliation, intimidation, name calling, yelling, or playing mind games
- Sexual: Any forced sexual activity or sexual assault
If you or someone you know may be in an abusive relationship, there are many ways to get help.
Governor Daniels to sign dating violence law
INDIANAPOLIS– On Monday, April 12, Governor Mitch Daniels will hold a ceremonial signing for “Heather’s Law,” a bill designed to encourage schools to effectively address issues of dating violence.
Senate Enrolled Act (SEA) 316 is named for Heather Norris, who was brutally murdered by her estranged
high school boyfriend in 2007. State Senator Earline Rogers (D-Gary) was the primary author of the
legislation. She was joined on the bill by Senators Dennis Kruse, R-Auburn, Tim Lanane (D-Anderson)
and Vi Simpson (D-Bloomington), and Representatives Gregory Porter (D-Indianapolis) and Robert
Behning (R-Indianapolis).
Heather's Mother, Debbie, Speaks
On October 30, 2007, Debbie Norris was a guest speaker for the Take Back the Night rally and march on the grounds of Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Indiana.
"Heather had dated her boyfriend off and on for two years, and all along she thought she could change him. Don't make the mistake of trying to take on that task yourself. Respect yourself.
The Voice of Heather
At the young age of 20, Heather Norris' life was tragically cut short as the result of dating violence. We have published a part of her story to give her a voice so that others may draw courage from her experience.
"It’s not easy for me to admit to anyone that I was making a mistake. But what 19-20 year old wants to think they don’t have everything under control? Certainly not me. You hear that time cures all wounds. Well, months had gone by and I was still scared, but I believed...again.
"Now I’m gone. Hearts are broken. Lives are changed forever, and I’ve left many with only memories. I thought I’d have more time......I needed more time.....I had dreams......I died too young..."
- 16 to 24-year-old women are the most likely to become victims of domestic violence. (National Center for Victims of Crime, 2007)
- At least 4 in every 10 incidents of domestic violence involves non-married people. (Bureau of Justice Special Report, 2000)
- Approximately 1 in 5 teenage girls reports being physically and/or sexually abused by a dating partner. (Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 2005)