A New Epidemic: Digital Dating Abuse Widespread But Underreported Among Young Americans

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"As a corporate leader in the fight against domestic violence, we know how important it is to educate and empower young people about warning signs before they happen," said Kirsten Gappelberg, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability for Mary Kay Inc. "Through this year's Truth About Abuse Survey, we've learned that young people have difficulty recognizing digital dating abuse. This tells us there's an opportunity to raise awareness while helping to educate young people as they navigate the complex combination of today's dating scene and the ever-changing world of technology." 

According to the survey, warning signs of digital dating abuse young people have experienced include:

• Significant other going through their phone (46%)
• Texting, calling or emailing excessively to "check-in" (33%)
• A partner sending unwanted, lewd texts or emails (18%)
• Posting embarrassing or negative content about a significant other on social media (14%)

The survey also revealed surprising results about the widespread epidemic:

• Gender gap: young women are at an even greater risk for abuse with 30% of girls compared to 24% of boys reporting that they have personally experienced digital dating abuse.
• Social media danger: 75% of young people believe social media has become more of a tool for abusers than a resource for victims.
• More education needed: 82% of young people said they need more information to talk to friends about digital dating abuse.

"It is disheartening to see abusive partners leverage technologies that are intended to mobilize our lives and bring us closer to our loved ones as a tool for controlling their partners," said Cameka Crawford, Chief Communications Officer at loveisrespect. "As technology changes every day, our strategies to prevent and to end abuse must change and adapt as well. The results from Mary Kay's survey further illustrate the need for more education, ensuring young adults and teens are building healthy relationships in all contexts and across all landscapes, including the digital world."

The 2017 survey is part of Mary Kay's Don't Look Away campaign which works to educate the public on recognizing the signs of an abusive relationship, how to take action and to raise awareness for support services. In partnership with Wakefield Research, 1,000 young people ages 13-24 nationwide participated in the survey as a representation of America's young population. To date, Mary Kay Inc. and The Mary Kay Foundation℠ have given $57 million to domestic violence prevention and awareness programs in an effort to end the cycle of abuse. 

About Mary Kay
At Mary Kay, success lies in our dedication to irresistible products, a rewarding opportunity and positive community impact.  For more than 54 years, Mary Kay has inspired women to achieve their entrepreneurial goals in nearly 40 countries. As a multibillion-dollar company, we offer the latest in cutting-edge skin care, bold color cosmetics and fragrances. Discover more reasons to love Mary Kay at marykay.com.

Mary Kay Inc. Corporate Communications
marykay.com/newsroom
972.687.5332 or [email protected]

SOURCE Mary Kay Inc.

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