Every February, we observe National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month to shed light on the serious issue of dating abuse among young people. Teen dating violence is more common than many realize, affecting nearly one in three teens in the United States. It can take many forms—physical, emotional, verbal, and even digital abuse. Raising awareness and providing education on this issue is essential to helping teens build healthy relationships and break the cycle of abuse.

What Is Teen Dating Violence?

Teen dating violence (TDV) is any form of abuse or controlling behavior that occurs in a dating relationship. This can include:

• Physical abuse – Hitting, shoving, slapping, or any use of physical force.
• Emotional and verbal abuse – Insults, threats, manipulation, or humiliation.
• Sexual abuse – Unwanted touching, coercion, or sexual assault.
• Digital abuse – Using social media, texting, or other online platforms to harass, intimidate, or control a partner.

Warning Signs of an Unhealthy Relationship

Recognizing red flags in a relationship can help prevent abuse from escalating. Some warning signs include:

✅ Extreme jealousy or possessiveness – Your partner constantly checks your phone, demands to know your whereabouts, or isolates you from friends and family.
✅ Controlling behavior – They dictate what you wear, who you talk to, or what you post online.
✅ Explosive anger or mood swings – They react aggressively over small issues and blame you for their outbursts.
✅ Threats or intimidation – They use fear or guilt to manipulate you into staying in the relationship.
✅ Pressuring you into uncomfortable situations – Whether emotional, sexual, or social, they make you feel obligated to do things you don’t want to do.

How to Help a Teen in an Unhealthy Relationship

If you suspect a teen is experiencing dating violence, here’s how you can support them:

💬 Listen without judgment – Let them share their experiences without blaming or shaming them.
❤️ Reassure them – Remind them that they deserve respect and that abuse is never their fault.
📞 Provide resources – Encourage them to seek help from trusted adults, school counselors, or helplines. (The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers confidential support at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “LOVEIS” to 22522.)
🚪 Respect their choices – Leaving an abusive relationship can be difficult; support them in making their own decisions at their own pace.

Promoting Healthy Relationships

To prevent teen dating violence, we must teach young people about healthy relationships based on respect, trust, and communication. Here are some key principles:

✅ Mutual respect – Both partners should feel valued and heard.
✅ Open and honest communication – Feel safe expressing feelings and concerns.
✅ Equality – No one should feel controlled or dominated.
✅ Healthy boundaries – Each person should have personal space and independence.

Take Action This February

National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is a time to educate, advocate, and support those affected. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, friend, or community leader, you can make a difference by:

🔸 Wearing orange on Wear Orange Day (check for the official date each year).
🔸 Hosting discussions at schools or youth groups about healthy relationships.
🔸 Sharing resources on social media using hashtags like #TDVAM #LoveIsRespect.
🔸 Encouraging open conversations about dating violence and safe relationships.

Together, we can empower teens to recognize unhealthy relationships, seek help, and build a future free from dating violence. 💜