Do educational interventions stop dating violence?

Abstract

Violence is a critical challenge for society and it disproportionately affects young people. Violence experienced in an intimate relationship is associated with attempted suicide, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as poorer physical health. Interventions to limit intimate partner violence, especially in adolescents and young people, are a priority. This commentary examines a systematic review and meta-analysis of educational interventions for relationship and dating violence in young people aged 12–25 years. Random-effects meta-analysis revealed a small statistical effect on knowledge, but no statistical associations with reduced violence. None of the included studies assessed health outcomes. The reviewers recommend further investigation of educational interventions in low- and middle-income settings, and studies with longer follow-up.