Sarah Burningham: Author

I’m shocked that Chris Brown released a video apology expressing “deep regret” for assaulting Rihanna (on TMZ, no less). Does he really think that a video about how his mom taught him better makes up for the fact that he’s abusive? Being sorry, while an important step towards change, does not dismiss the fact that he beat his girlfriend. It doesn’t make anything better. And frankly, I don’t care about how much “soul searching” he’s done. His behavior is unacceptable. Period.

This might sound harsh, but abusive relationships are no joke, and abusive behavior can’t be tolerated on any level, by anyone. I’m not privy to details of Chris and Rihanna’s personal relationship, and I hope he’s enough of a man to apologize directly to her and not just his fans, but I also hope she doesn’t take him back. Not because she has to be an example for other women (even though she’s become one by default), but because no woman should be with a man who doesn’t respect her enough to keep his hands off of her.

I wanted to share this Teen Dating Bill of Rights, courtesy of LoveisRespect.org – a national teen dating abuse hotline. If you or anyone you know is in an abusive relationship or is in a relationship that seems like it’s on the verge of becoming abusive, please talk to some you trust. Get some help. There are guys out there who will treat you right and you deserve to be in a relationship that is healthy and happy.

Teen Dating Bill of Rights

I have the right:

To always be treated with respect – In a respectful relationship, you should be treated as an equal.
To be in a healthy relationship – A healthy relationship is not controlling, manipulative, or jealous. A healthy relationship involves honesty, trust, and communication.
To not be hurt physically or emotionally – You should feel safe in your relationship at all times.
Abuse is never deserved and is never your fault – Conflicts should be resolved in a peaceful and rational way.
To refuse sex or affection at anytime – A healthy relationship involves making consensual sexual decisions.
You have the right to not have sex – Even if you have had sex before, you have the right to refuse sex for any reason.
To have friends and activities apart from my boyfriend or girlfriend – Spending time by yourself, with male or female friends, or with family is normal and healthy.
To end a relationship – You should not be harassed, threatened, or made to feel guilty for ending an unhealthy or healthy relationship. You have the right to end a relationship for any reason you choose.