February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TFVAM). This year’s TDVAM theme is “Love Like That,” which illuminates healthy and unhealthy relationships.

In the United States, about 20% of teens experience sexual or physical dating violence. Teen dating violence, also called intimate relationship violence, is violence in adolescent relationships who are not mature enough to be aware of healthy and unhealthy relationships.

Sign of an Unhealthy Relationship

Teen dating violence can be physical, psychological, and sexual abuse that can permanently influence the development of teens. To protect and prevent teen dating violence, teens should be aware of signs of unhealthy relationships. 

• Extreme jealousy

Often leads to controlling behavior that isolates a partner from other friends or even family members. For example, constantly checking contact, social media, and location is a sign of an unhealthy relationship. 

• Unwanted physical contact

Any unwanted physical contact such as sexual intercourse without consent is physical and sexual abuse. 

• Threats and violence

Causing physical and psychological hardship is a clear indication of dating violence. 

Consequences of Teen Dating Violence

The experience of teen dating violence can lead to depression and anxiety symptoms, engaging in antisocial behaviors, and even thinking about suicide. If you, your friend, or family member is experiencing dating violence, action should be taken to stop it.

Where Can We Find Help?

Teen dating violence is common, especially in females and within the LGBTQ+ community. If you found out that you are a victim of an unhealthy relationship involving dating violence, do not hesitate to report to anyone you can trust and seek advice from organizations such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline, The National Dating Abuse Helpline, and more. There are resources available to help you and remember you are not alone. 

“During National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, we bring this scourge out of the shadows, recommit to promoting healthy relationships, and join together with a clear message to survivors: You are not alone. Support is close by, and justice is within reach,” President Biden proclaimed during the White House Proclamation on National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month of 2024. 

 It is important to make sure you and your partner’s relationship is healthy and if not, seek help.

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233