A study, which was conducted by Wayne State University and the University of Michigan, shows that teenage girls who are dating might use a form of violence, but they do not think it would lead to the use of more serious force. In surveying more than 100 young girls, it was found that they might slap, push, or punch someone they were dating, but did not think their behavior would deteriorate, even though they knew it could. Co- researcher Poco Kernsmith, associate professor in Wayne State's School of Social Work, commented in the story. \"Supporting an environment that is intolerant of any form of violent behavior is an important component of dating violence prevention. Reaching youth before they begin dating to provide skill-building around healthy, respectful relationships can help shape future behavior.\"

http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/girls-seek-approval-over-violence
http://www.rdmag.com/News/Feeds/2011/05/general-sciences-girls-less-likely-to-be-violent-when-seeking-other/