Help-Seeking Experiences of Adolescent Dating Violence Survivors

Summary

The purpose of this study is to explore the experiences of young adults who experienced dating violence during their teenage years. In this study, a survivor of adolescent dating violence refers to someone who experienced physical, sexual, psychological, and/or stalking behaviours by a dating partner during adolescence. The focus is specifically on individuals who, at the time of the abuse, either considered seeking help or actively reached out for support. It will examine their experiences, perceptions, and barriers when seeking help, as well as the challenges and facilitators they face when accessing services, and any unmet needs related to service access and availability. The main goal is to uplift and amplify the voices and perspectives of survivors to better understand their unique experiences, challenges, and unmet needs, and to explore how support systems can be adapted or developed to prioritize the rights, needs, and wishes of those affected, ultimately contributing to a more effective and compassionate response to ADV.