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February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

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More than 1 in 10 teenagers who have been on a date have also been physically abused by a boyfriend or girlfriend in the last year according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is a national effort to raise awareness and protect teens from violence.

Every year, approximately 1.5 million high school students nationwide experience physical abuse from a dating partner. It is also known that 3 in 4 parents have never talked to their children about domestic violence. In light of these facts, every year during the month of February advocates join efforts to raise awareness about dating violence, highlight promising practices, and encourage communities to get involved.

There are many resources available to provide information and support to victims and assist service providers and communities to decrease the prevalence of dating violence among young people. Anyone can make this happen by raising awareness about the issue, saying something about abuse when you see it and organizing your community to make a difference. Take Action!

What can parents do to prevent teen dating violence and abuse?

  • Be a role model – treat your kids and others with respect.
  • Start talking to your kids about healthy relationships early – before they start dating.
  • Get involved with efforts to prevent dating violence at your teen’s school.

There are many organizations that provide direct services to young people who experience dating violence, as well as information to adults who are concerned about young people. National initiatives and campaigns are also in place to provide training, technical assistance, public awareness, and community programming focused on engaging youth, adults, and community members to address dating violence. For a list of key national organizations, click here.

National Dating Abuse Helpline - This hotline provides 24-hour national web-based and telephone resources to help teens experiencing dating abuse. Young people (as well as concerned friends, parents, teachers, clergy, law enforcement and service providers) anywhere in the country can call toll free, 1-866-331-9474, text “loveis” to 22522, or log on to the interactive website, loveisrespect.org, and receive immediate, confidential assistance.

Break the Cycle is a national nonprofit organization that provides preventive dating and domestic violence education and outreach to teens and young adults.

Love is Not Abuse Beginning in 2012, Break the Cycle is operating the Love is Not Abuse campaign and grassroots coalition of advocates. The campaign includes comprehensive resources for parents, a digital abuse curriculum and tips for engaging men and boys.

If you are worried about your teen, call the National Dating Abuse Helpline at 1-866-331-9474 or text “loveis” to 22522.

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Teen Dating Violence

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