via Washington Post

As the Rihanna and Chris Brown conflict continues, new rumors have hit the headlines. The latest news from Life & Style reports that Chris Brown claims his attack on Rihanna was in self defense.

source allegedly connected with Chris’ legal team told the Gossip Rag that “Chris is already building his case. He’s saying she threw a phone at him, then hit him in the head and basically just lost it. He’s saying she attacked him.”

But we saw the photos of the two after the incident. Chris Brown’s face seemed clear, while Rihanna emerged black and blue with bruises and possibly bite marks.

It seems as if the debate will continue for some time to come. But it does raise new questions about the situation. Perhaps Rihanna was abusing Chris verbally or physically. However, does that make what Chris did any less horrifying?

While it may not change our view on the Rihanna Chris Brown situation, it does give a new perspective in youth dating violence. While we simply don’t know what happened in this incident, it is important to look at both sides of an attack. We need to be reminded that dating violence can happen to anyone—female or male.

While men are less likely to suffer from domestic violence as women, it still happens. Furthermore, males are less likely to speak out about their pain because of the strong social stigma.

What do you think about Chris Brown’s threat to counter Rihanna’s charges? Do you believe it is possible he was, in fact, defending himself? If so, what should be done? If not? Comment Below!

By CGG Reporter, Caroline Kotter