Domestic Violence

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Free iPhone App Educates Parents About Teen Dating Abuse

Constant calling and texting (aka Sexting). Spreading hurtful rumors via social networking sites. Threats of physical violence using email and texts. Digital abuse is on the rise, with nearly one in four teens saying they’ve been victimized by a boyfriend or girlfriend via technology. Yet many parents remain in the dark about the prevalence and dangers of digital abuse.

Now, a first-of-its-kind iPhone app lets parents experience firsthand digitally abusive behaviors in teen relationships. Developed by Liz Claiborne Inc.’s Love Is Not Abuse initiative, the app includes facts on dating abuse, warning signs, tips on how to talk to teens and steps to take if a parent suspects their child is in an abusive relationship. The app also simulates text messages, emails and phone calls in real-time, mimicking the controlling, abusive behaviors teens might face.

Love Is Not Abuse is available for download free of charge from the iTunes App Store.

To learn more about teen dating and intimate partner violence, visit Be Smart. Be Well. Domestic Violence.