What best defines dating violence?

• A. Violence between persons who have or have had a continuing and significant relationship of a romantic or intimate nature.
• B. Violence by two strangers in dating context.
• C. A single incident of physical assault by a former partner.
• D. Verbal abuse in dating relationships.

Answer: (A)

Dating violence is violence that occurs between people who have or have had a continuing and significant romantic or intimate relationship. This definition highlights two essential elements: there must be a dating/romantic connection, and the violence happens within that ongoing or past relationship. It goes beyond a single incident or violence between strangers in a dating scenario, and it isn’t limited to verbal abuse alone. In dating relationships, violence can take many forms—physical, sexual, psychological, or emotional abuse, threats, coercion, or stalking—carried out by a current or former partner. That broader, relational focus is why this option is the best definition.