'You're talking about all these things you're doing … it is just seen as the norm': exploring young people's perspectives on disclosing their own use of harmful behaviour

Abstract

Existing research into adolescent dating abuse demonstrates that young people experiencing harm are most likely to confide in their friends, but far less is known about the disclosure habits of young people instigating harm. This paper explores the findings from a mixed-methods study relating to whom young people would speak to about their own use of behaviour they describe as harmful and why. Data were collected through a mixed-methods survey responded to by 749 young people aged 11–25, and through semistructured interviews with 11 young people aged 17–23. Analysis of this data identified closest friends as the group young people felt most likely to confide in, mirroring the literature on young victims, followed by their partners/the person they are seeing and a therapist/counsellor. Findings showed these individuals were chosen due to the young person feeling comfortable talking to them about this topic, believing their disclosure would remain confidential and feeling they would offer a nonjudgemental response. This paper outlines the need for a systemic response to abuse in young people's relationships, which is centred around improved relationship literacy for young people themselves and across society. It also highlights some practical implications focused on ensuring young people have adequate support and guidance in place to navigate early romantic/dating relationships. These findings offer some direction for where to focus resources and support, as well as some guidance around approaches that may encourage disclosures from young people instigating harm.