Which factor is a risk factor for TDV vulnerability?

Which factor is a risk factor for TDV vulnerability?

• A. Strong peer support
• B. Stable housing
• C. Prior violence exposure
• D. Healthy coping skills

Answer: (C)

Prior violence exposure increases TDV vulnerability because it can normalize aggression in relationships, shape beliefs that conflict should be handled through force, and contribute trauma that affects emotional regulation, self-esteem, and boundary-setting. When teens carry these experiences, they’re more likely to misinterpret red flags, stay in harmful dynamics, or struggle to advocate for themselves in dating contexts. Trauma can also lead to coping patterns that rely on control, fear, or withdrawal, which undermines healthy communication and help-seeking. Protective factors—such as strong peer support, stable housing, and healthy coping skills—buffer these risks by providing safe relationship models, secure environments, and effective stress-management strategies, which is why these are not risk factors.

Prior violence exposure increases TDV vulnerability because it can normalize aggression in relationships, shape beliefs that conflict should be handled through force, and contribute trauma that affects emotional regulation, self-esteem, and boundary-setting. When teens carry these experiences, they’re more likely to misinterpret red flags, stay in harmful dynamics, or struggle to advocate for themselves in dating contexts. Trauma can also lead to coping patterns that rely on control, fear, or withdrawal, which undermines healthy communication and help-seeking. Protective factors—such as strong peer support, stable housing, and healthy coping skills—buffer these risks by providing safe relationship models, secure environments, and effective stress-management strategies, which is why these are not risk factors.