Teenage relational violence: A framework for recognition, assessment, and prevention

Description: Adolescents today must navigate a world shaped by digital relationships, social pressures, and rapidly changing expectations around identity and connection. These pressures effect both boys and girls, but this workshop will focus on the impact on boys. One consequence of these changes is a rise in relational violence, leaving clinicians and educators wondering what they can do to prevent its spread.

The critically acclaimed Netflix series, “Adolescence” captivated audiences with its raw portrayal of teenage life, relational violence, and youth identity—and sparked critical conversations among clinicians, educators, and families. Conversations that now continue in this training. Using the series as a springboard, this course offers a unique opportunity to explore the psychological, social, and systemic contributors to adolescent relational violence through a clinically informed lens. 

This timely, skills-based training equips mental health professionals with evidence-informed tools to recognize and assess teens at risk of relational aggression. Through a case-based discussion anchored in the Netflix series, “Adolescence”, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the interplay between trauma, peer pressures, parental confusion, and digital influences such as “the manosphere”.  Each session blends developmental theory with practical application, offering tools that can be used in clinical settings.

"What does it take to push a seemingly normal teen over the edge? This course will offer a practical approach to understanding the teen male psyche. In the process, both the complexity and simplicity of an answer will become apparent." - Dr. Marshall Korenblum.

Learning objectives:

• Core drivers of teen relational violence, including distorted masculinity and the need to impose social hierarchies.
• The impact of social media, cyberbullying, and online echo chambers (including  “the manosphere”).
• Hallmarks of effective clinical assessments and red flags of the transition from ideology to action.
• Appreciate the impact of teen violence on parents and teachers.
• Understand ways in which we can improve the safety and security of today’s teenagers.

SickKids Centre for Community Mental Health Learning Institute offers training and education for professionals to advance mental health care – our goal is to improve client outcomes and building capacity, together. Find training to support your professional development at www.sickkidscmhlearning.ca and reserve your spot today! Don't forget to use code OPA20 to save 20% off your registration fees.