Young people are often happy to have someone who is so interested in them and have a difficult time differentiating what are appropriate behaviors in a new relationship. Women ages 16- 24 are three times as likely to be in violent relationships as women of other ages (Dating Violence). Sadly, teen-dating violence is a prevalent problem today. Soon, Caitlin’s fears are further confirmed when he begins to physically abuse her. However, his controlling behaviors begin to frighten Caitlin as they become more emotionally abusive. However, these small acts of rebellion continue to grow as Caitlin hides more pieces of her relationship from her parents- her boyfriend’s drug use, how he will not allow her to see her friends, and her declining grades from spending too much time with him.Ĭaitlin is initially flattered by this attention and believes that the closer he holds onto her, the more he loves her. In attempts to be different from her sister, she takes up activities at school that her sister was not involved in and starts dating a boy that her parents do not like. **********************************************ĭreamland is a young adult novel by Sarah Dessen that tells the story of Caitlin, a high school student who is trying to live up to her perfect older sister. In this series, guest blogger Stephanie Quinn shares insights about how these resources depict the issue, as well as resources for learning more. Note from See the Triumph: As part of our series this month on Intimate Partner Violence, Stigma, and the Media, this week we’re featuring a series of reviews of books and films that address the topic of domestic violence.

By Stephanie Quinn, See the Triumph Guest Blogger

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