Relationship Abuse

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

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Table of Contents

According to the American Psychological Association, up to 19% of teens experience sexual or physical dating violence, about half face stalking or harassment, and as many as 65% report being psychologically abused.[1]

These numbers represent real teenagers facing real harm. Breaking the silence around teen dating violence could save someone’s life.

Table of Contents

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month highlights the ongoing need for nationwide attention to this problem.


What Is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month?

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM) rolls around every February to shine a spotlight on the issue of teen dating violence. The goal? To help teens, parents, teachers, and communities spot the red flags in relationships and learn how to prevent things from going south.

Dating violence isn’t just about physical harm — it can be emotional, sexual, or even stalking. And sadly, it’s more common than you might think, affecting millions of teens every year and leaving some serious scars on their mental and physical health. 

That’s why TDVAM is so important.

All month long, schools and organizations host events, workshops, and activities to spread the word about healthy relationships and share resources for those who need help. 


More Than Just Numbers: Eye-Opening Stats on Dating Violence

Behind every statistic is a struggling person, and understanding these numbers is the first step to realizing just how urgently we need to tackle teen dating violence. Here’s what you need to know:


Beyond the Bruises: The Real Cost of Teen Dating Violence

Dating violence is a big deal, and it can have serious effects on a person’s life. Understanding these impacts can help us see why it’s so important to take action.

Physical health consequences

Beyond the obvious bruises and injuries, victims often deal with headaches, stomach problems, and trouble sleeping. Some even develop eating disorders or start using drugs or alcohol to cope.

Mental health repercussions

The emotional toll of teen dating violence is massive. It can cause anxiety, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These mental health issues can stick around for a long time and make it hard for teens to live happy, healthy lives. In fact, the APA reports that at least 20% of teens have considered suicide.[2]

Academic and social difficulties

Teens who experience dating violence often struggle in school. They might have trouble focusing, miss classes, or even drop out. It can also make it hard for them to connect with friends and family, leading to feelings of isolation.

Increased risk of future intimate partner violence

Sadly, teens who experience dating violence are more likely to be in abusive relationships as adults. This cycle of violence can be hard to break, but with the right support and education, it’s possible.

Economic and societal costs

Beyond the personal impact, dating violence affects everyone. It strains health care, law enforcement, and community resources, costing society billions every year.

Long-term emotional scars

Trust issues, fear of new relationships, low self-esteem — these can stick around long after the abuse ends. But with support and help, healing is possible. To achieve that, we need to increase awareness.


Breaking the Cycle: Smart Steps to Stop Dating Violence

The good news about breaking this cycle of abuse and violence is that prevention isn’t just possible — it’s happening right now in communities across the country. Here’s how we make it work better:

Educating youth about healthy relationships

Starting early is crucial. Teens need to know what good relationships look like before they start dating. That means talking about respect, boundaries, and consent in ways they can understand. Here are some resources to get you started:

Promoting bystander intervention

If you see something, say something! Teach teens how to safely intervene when they witness abusive behavior.

Challenging gender stereotypes and societal norms

A lot of harmful behaviors are rooted in outdated ideas about gender roles. Time to ditch the “boys will be boys” excuse and the idea that jealousy equals love. These old-school ideas are part of why dating violence keeps happening. Questioning and changing these norms can help create healthier dynamics. 

Strengthening support systems for survivors

Nobody should have to deal with dating violence alone. We need more counselors in schools, better-funded support programs, and communities ready to help, not judge.

Encouraging healthy coping mechanisms and self-care

Teaching teens how to handle stress, anger, and relationship problems in healthy ways matters. Sometimes the best prevention is knowing how to take care of yourself. For example, journaling can help immensely, especially for teens.

Advocating for policy changes and increased funding

To really make a difference, we need policies that protect teens and provide the resources they need. Advocate for changes that support survivors and prevent future violence. This could mean pushing for better education, more funding for support services, and stronger laws against abusers.


Turning Outrage Into Action: Easy Ways to Get Involved

So, you’re fired up about ending teen dating violence. Awesome! But knowing something’s wrong isn’t enough. We’ve gotta do something about it. Here are some ways to get involved:

Organize or attend educational events

Got a school or community center nearby? Team up with them to host a workshop or panel discussion about the signs of unhealthy relationships and how to prevent them. Even something as simple as a lunch-and-learn session can get people talking. And if you’re not ready to organize? Just show up — sometimes being present is powerful enough.

Engage in social media campaigns

Social media is a powerful tool. Use it to share stories, stats, and resources about teen dating violence. Join online campaigns and use hashtags like #TDVAM or #TeenDVMonth to connect with others who care about the cause. Every post, tweet, or share can make a big difference.

Volunteer with local organizations

Local domestic violence shelters and youth organizations always need help. Whether it’s answering hotline calls, organizing donations, or helping with events, your time matters. Plus, you’ll meet other people who care as much as you do.

Advocate for policy changes and increased funding

Write to your local representatives, show up at town halls, contact your school board, join student government, or even start a petition. Advocate for policies that protect teens and push for more funding for support services and prevention programs. Change starts with people speaking up.

Donate to support services and prevention programs

If you can spare some cash, local organizations need funding to keep their doors open. Every little bit helps fund counseling, education, and other vital services for teens in need.

Engage in open and honest conversations

Talking about dating violence can be tough, but it’s necessary. Start open, judgment-free conversations with friends, family, or even classmates. Awareness starts with honest dialogue. Don’t be afraid to have those awkward conversations.

Share resources and support services

You never know who might be silently searching for help. Share these resources on social media or directly with friends who might need them:


Conclusion

Dating violence isn’t just a “teen issue” — it’s everyone’s issue. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, friend, or just someone who cares about making things better, you have the power to make a difference. 

While February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, the work doesn’t stop when the calendar flips. Keep talking, keep watching, and keep caring. Because sometimes, being that one person who speaks up or reaches out can change — or even save — someone’s life.


FAQ

When did domestic violence awareness month start?

Domestic Violence Awareness Month began in October 1987, when the first nationwide domestic violence awareness campaign was launched. The goal is to bring attention to domestic violence and support those affected by it. Before that, there was a “Day of Unity” started by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence in 1981.

What are some examples of dating violence?

Dating violence isn’t just hitting or pushing. It includes stalking, attempts to control, pressuring you to do things you don’t want to do, verbal abuse, and much more. In fact, most people underestimate what behaviors constitute dating violence.

How can I help spread awareness about teen dating violence?

To help spread awareness about teen dating violence, talk about it with your friends and family. Share information on social media, attend or organize awareness events at your school, and learn the warning signs so you can help others spot them too.

What should I do if I witness dating violence?

If you witness dating violence, what you do next depends on the situation. In some cases, reporting the situation can make things worse for the victim. However, in cases of immediate danger of physical harm, you should absolutely call the police. What you shouldn’t do when you see dating violence is ignore it — your support could make a big difference.


References

1. Abrams, Z. (2023, October 1). Up to 19% of teens experience dating violence. Psychologists want to break the cycle. American Psychological Association.
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/10/disrupting-teen-dating-violence

2. Pappas, S. (2023, July 1). More than 20% of teens have seriously considered suicide. Psychologists and communities can help tackle the problem. American Psychological Association.
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/07/psychologists-preventing-teen-suicide


Author

  • Edwin Maina is a storyteller at heart, with a background in broadcast journalism and advertising. When he's not crafting compelling narratives about love and relationships, you'll find him tending to his flock of Saanen goats and Dorper sheep—because if there's one thing he knows, it's that both animals and humans thrive on care and connection. As a youth mentor at his local church, Edwin also draws on his diverse experiences to offer wisdom on navigating life's challenges, including the ever-intriguing world of dating.

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