Confronting Forms of Sexual Violence in Schools: De-Constructing Policy Paradoxes

Empirical research evidences that teen dating violence (TDV) disproportionately affects females, and in particular those within BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) and LGBTQ+ demographic groups. Key to current and evolving leadership discourse concerning TDV is a clear understanding of how the sexual politics of education shape policies concerning TDV, as well as awareness of how the normative values attributed to schooling practices can influence public understanding of TDV and the extent to which adolescent relationships can be supported to develop prosocial behaviors that challenge rape culture. This chapter outlines the experience of TDV and the role that policy-makers and educational personnel play in the role of violence prevention. It explores current policies for dating violence across state and federal legislation, draws parallels between bullying and TDV, and discusses how bullying policy can inform more relevant policy on TDV. It also examines violence prevention and reporting barriers identified through inconsistent state policies, inaccessible reporting resources, and lack of training for educators (i.e., leaders, teachers, counselors, and support staff). To address violence disclosure and prevention, recommendations are offered in the form of culturally responsive trauma-informed policies and practices (TIPP) and systemwide approaches such as bystander and comprehensive sexual education programming.