Which of the following is a risk factor that may increase a teen's vulnerability to TDV?

• A. Prior violence exposure
• B. Safe school climate
• C. Substance use
• D. Peer-led programs

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is how past experiences shape vulnerability to teen dating violence. Prior exposure to violence—whether witnessing or experiencing it—sets up patterns and beliefs about relationships that can last into adolescence. It can normalize aggression, weaken a teen’s sense of boundaries and safety, and contribute to trauma that affects emotion regulation and trust. All of these make it more likely for a teen to enter or stay in unhealthy or violent dating dynamics.

A safe school climate, by contrast, tends to protect against TDV rather than increase risk, and while substance use can be associated with TDV in some cases, the direct, most influential factor among the options is previous violence exposure. Peer-led programs are preventive and protective, not risk factors.