September 16 : A Kansas State University professor has warned that a startling number of high school and college students are being battered, sexually abused or stalked by their dates.

“Approximately 30 per cent of college students have been in relationships that involve physical aggression. Even more have been in relationships that are emotionally abusive,” said Sandra Stith, director of the marriage and family therapy program at K-State and a nationally recognized expert in domestic violence.

Prof. Stith also states that approximately 25 per cent of high school students who are in relationships are subjected to abuse.

Known as a pioneer in couples’ treatment for domestic violence, she says that her research points to many complex triggers.

According to Prof. Stith, the more serious the liaison, the more likely it is to be violent. She says too many students think they do not deserve better treatment, and some think hitting and abusive language are acceptable.

“It is never OK to be emotionally abusive or physically violent. We need to send a clear message that abuse in any form is not normal, not acceptable and not OK,” she said.

Prof. Stith also points out that both male and female students are victims of physical and emotional abuse.

“We cannot minimize violence against women. Male violence is more likely to cause serious injury and death,” she said.

She, however, added that just like female victims, male victims often accept blame for the abuse, saying things like “it’s my fault because I am not listening to her.”

For students who believe a friend may be abused, Stith urges them to speak up. She says that silence adds to the problem. (ANI)