Adolescence is a key developmental period in which education regarding peer and dating relationships should be provided. Violence prevention can be attempted during adolescence if we consider that youth are beginning to develop relationship patterns which they will carry on with them into adulthood.

The Youth Relationships Project has developed an 18 week prevention program for adolescents 14-16 years of age. This program is designed to provide youth at-risk of developing violent or abusive relationships with skills that will encourage healthy relationships. Youths who have been targeted for this program are those with a history of experiencing or witnessing violence within their homes during childhood. See our newsletter for more information about the prevention program as it has been implemented in local communities.

Children's Aid Society or Child Protective Service agencies refer youths to the program. Referrals are also welcome from school guidance counselors, etc. Facilitators for the program are usually social workers from CAS or CPS agencies and other local community agencies which are familiar with the issues of violence and abuse. Each group is led by a male and female facilitator who are trained by our staff regarding the philosophy of the YRP. Youths meet for 2 hours per week for 18 weeks to participate in a learning and sharing experience. Issues discussed include myths and facts of woman abuse, dating violence, sexual assault. Communication and assertiveness skills are developed. Social action opportunities include learning about and visiting local community agencies and organizing a social action event in the community to benefit a community agency such as Sexual Assault Center, shelter, etc. The curriculum is available in full in the Youth Relationships Manual.