Addabbo Sponsors Dating Violence Workshops for Teens at Two Local High Schools on March 9

Queens, NY, March 12, 2012 -- NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Queens), a member of the Senate’s Education Committee, sponsored a powerful learning experience on Friday, March 9—two Teen Dating Violence 101 interactive workshops—in the morning at John Adams H.S. in Ozone Park and in the afternoon at Martin Luther H. S. in Maspeth. The sessions were conducted by Day One‘s Community Education Program, and covered such topics as the warning signs of an abusive relationship, the different types of abuse that exist, the obstacles to ending an abusive relationship and how to help a friend in need.

Violence in teen relationships is just as serious as it is among adults. According to the Journal of Pediatrics, about 2 in 10 teen girls and 1 in 10 teen boys say they have been  physically and/or sexually abused by their partner. Just as in adults, teen dating violence can lead to serious emotional problems.    

Addabbo’s message to teens: “Day One’s Community Education Program has reached over 23,000 youths in New York City. Learn from specialists who understand the dynamics of teen relationships and are here to help and inform you. Knowledge is power -- protect yourself.”

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