IntroductionIn recent history, dating violence has become a paramount problem in American society. With increasing rates of domestic violence, much research has been conducted that demonstrates that dating violence during adolescence is a significant factor contributing to later domestic violence. Current research reveals that a much higher percentage of adolescents suffer some amount of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse in their romantic relationships. Studies have shown that those who engage in violent behavior as well as those who are victims of it are more likely to be involved in violent relationships in the future. The significant number of individuals involved in these behaviors during these adolescent years has many implications for the roles of counselors across multiple specialties. Dating ViolenceFor counselors and others involved in adolescents' lives to be able to identify those who are suffering from dating violence, it is first essential that they understand what is meant by dating violence. dating. Dating violence is “the perception or threat of an act of violence by at least one member of an unmarried couple in the context of a romantic or courtship relationship (Glass, 2003).” This type of violence can take three different forms: physical (hitting, pinching, shoving or kicking), emotional (threats, name-calling, teasing, intimidation or distancing friends from family members) or sexual (forcing the partner to commit). in a sexual act) (CDC, 2008). Seimer and colleagues describe the process of dating violence as “a cycle of violence (Seimer, 2004).” The purpose of this cycle is the exercise of power and control over the middle of paper......with more lasting implications. According to O'Keefe's (2005) findings, men tend to fall into cycles of violence rather than committing a single isolated act of violence. Who is affected? Despite popular belief, dating violence occurs regardless of age, religion, or ethnic or socioeconomic background (Seimer, 2004). Statistically, the demographic group has the highest prevalence of dating violence victimization and perpetration (CDC, 2008, Glass et al., 2003). There are a multitude of risk factors that appear to predict dating violence. They include: smoking, drinking and driving, not wearing a seat belt, excessive episodic alcohol consumption, unsafe sexual practices, access to weapons, physical fights, expulsion or suspension from school, gang membership, low levels of academic achievement, concern for personal safety, and history of dating violence.