Relationship violence is consistently reported as having a negative impact on children's future behaviors and their emotional well-being. Current research indicates that three to five children in every U.S. classroom witness domestic violence in their homes. And an estimated one-third of the nation's teenagers is abused emotionally, physically, or sexually by their partners. As violence in the U.S. reaches crisis proportions, the need for prevention and intervention is crucial to break the intergenerational cycle of abuse.

The Julian Center is responding to this need through its school-based prevention program, Relationship Violence/Relationship Respect. Aimed at pre-teens and adolescents as they begin to explore new connections with their peers, the program helps to raise their awareness about relationship violence before it becomes a commonplace part of their experience.

Trained facilitators from The Julian Center use videos, worksheets, and group discussion to empower youth to resist abuse and prevent violence in their relationships. In age-appropriate groups, teens and pre-teens meet in a series of five 50-minute sessions to reflect actively on their beliefs about friendship and dating. The ultimate goal of this program is to influence pre-dating attitudes and behaviors so that young people learn to expect and promote greater respect and equality in their relationships.

Program Curriculum

Session 1
Overview: Identifying Different Types of Abuse

Session 2
Observing the Abuse of Power and Control

Session 3
Abusive Relationships: Awareness and Response

Session 4
Healthy Teen Relationships: Respect & Equality

Session 5
Putting It All Together: Prevention & Resources

Scheduling the Program

To schedule Relationship Violence/Relationship Respect for your school or group, or to learn more about the program, please contact Cynthia Knabe, Program Facilitator & Coordinator, at 317.941.2200, ext. 256.