Watch for Signs During Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

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Each February, young adults and their loved ones nationwide raise awareness about teen dating violence through Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM). This annual, month-long effort focuses on advocacy and education to stop dating abuse before it starts.

Dating violence is more common than you may think, especially among teens and young adults: 1 in 3 U.S. teens will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from someone they’re in a relationship with before becoming adults. And nearly half (43%) of U.S. college women report experiencing violent or abusive dating behaviors.

It’s important to seek help if you see signs that a relationship is unhealthy or becoming abusive. Teens can pay attention to these warning signs:

  • Emotional Abuse:

    • Constant criticism or insults: Being called names, put down, or constantly criticized.
    • Extreme jealousy or possessiveness: Wanting to know your every move, controlling who you see or talk to.
    • Isolation: Being pressured to spend all your time with them and cut off contact with friends and family.
    • Threats and intimidation: Being threatened with harm, either physical or emotional.
    • Controlling behavior: Making decisions for you, telling you what to wear or how to act.

  • Physical Abuse:

    • Hitting, slapping, kicking, or shoving.
    • Any form of unwanted physical contact.

  • Sexual Abuse:

    • Unwanted sexual touching or pressure to have sex.
    • Sharing sexually explicit photos without consent.
    • Coercion or pressure to engage in sexual activity.

  • Technological Abuse:

    • Constant texting or calling.
    • Monitoring social media activity.
    • Demanding passwords to phones or social media accounts.
    • Posting embarrassing or private photos or videos online without consent.

  • Other Signs:

    • Unexplained injuries.
    • Sudden changes in behavior, mood, or appearance.
    • Withdrawal from friends and family.
    • Loss of interest in hobbies or activities.
    • Low self-esteem.
    • Fear or anxiety around their partner.

Important Note: If you or someone you know is experiencing dating violence, please reach out for help. You are not alone.

  • Someplace Safe | call 800-974-3359 or text 844-980-0169 or chat online at www.someplacesafe.info
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline | 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
  • Love is Respect: https://www.loveisrespect.org/