NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Over the weekend, University of Tennessee cornerback Bryce Thompson was arrested for domestic assault. While this case made headlines statewide, experts say the problem is disturbingly common.
In fact, college-aged women are among the highest at risk for partner violence.
Nearly half of dating college women report experiencing violent and abusive dating behaviors. Shan Foster with YWCA says prevention starts with education. Foster encourages parents to talk to their children about what it means to have a healthy relationship at a young age.
"I think it's a lack of education from the standpoint of healthy relationships, what constitutes as a healthy relationship, what are signs of abuse we should be looking for?," said Foster, VP of external affairs.
According to the National Domestic Abuse Hotline, one in three dating college students has given a dating partner their computer, email, or social network password. Foster says healthy relationships are built on the foundation of trust and not control. Someone who takes that away from you should raise a red flag.
"For example, not allowing them space without them texting them constantly or calling them, or isolating from their friends and family and demanding about what person wear, who to hang out with, those types of things," said Foster.
It's important to remember domestic violence doesn't always mean bruises on the arms. In fact, subtle abuse such as mental, emotional or financial abuse has longer. lingering effects.
If you or someone you know has questions about domestic violence or needs help, call the YWCA's crisis line at 1-800-334-4628.
As for Bryce Thompson, he's now suspended from the team indefinitely. He was arrested Saturday for misdemeanor domestic assault after allegedly getting into an argument with a woman in a campus dormitory. Thompson was a freshman All-American last season.
