Approximately 9% of high school students reported that they have been hit or physically hurt by a boyfriend or girlfriend in the past 12 months. Many cases of teen dating violence go unreported because teens are afraid to tell their friends and family. Teen Violence Awareness Month raises awareness and protects adolescents from dating violence.

What is Teen Dating Violence?

Teen dating violence is a type of partner violence that occurs between people ages 12 to 18. Relationship abuse can come in many different forms including the following: physical, psychological/emotional, sexual, harassment, stalking, and digital. Unhealthy relationships can last a lifetime. Dating violence victims are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors like drinking and smoking. In addition, they are more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Recognize the Signs

Someone you know might be in an abusive relationship if they:

• Had more friends before their relationship
• Cry frequently
• Have become more secretive since starting the relationship
• Have bruises they are nervous to explain
• Have become critical about their appearance, talents, or abilities
• Make excuses for their partner’s poor behavior

What to Do

If you think you know someone who may be experiencing dating violence…

Do:

• Respect their personal space and privacy
• Listen to what they have to say
• Inform them of available resources
• Let them know that you are there for them

Do Not:

• Overreact
• Judge them
• Interrupt them while they are speaking
• Give them your advice
• Confront their partner
• Ask unnecessary questions

Tips on How You Can Help Prevent Dating Violence

• Learn more about dating violence
• Promote healthy relationships during the preteen and teen years
• Know the risk factors
• Raise awareness of teen dating violence in your community
• Identify local community resources

To learn more about teen dating violence, please visit:

CDC’s Dating Matters: Strategies to

Promote Healthy Teen Relationships

www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/datingmatters

National Dating Abuse Helpline and Love is Respect:

1-866-331-9474 or text 77054 or www.loveisrespect.org

National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

National Sexual Assault Hotline

1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

National Sexual Violence Resource Center

www.nsvrc.org

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