Every February, advocates, educators, and communities across the nation come together to recognize American Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM). This month serves as a crucial time to raise awareness, educate young people about healthy relationships, and provide resources to those in need.
The History of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
TDVAM was officially recognized in 2010 by Congress, following years of advocacy from organizations dedicated to preventing domestic and dating violence. The goal was to create a platform to address the growing concerns of abuse among teens in dating relationships. Since then, February has been dedicated to educating young people, parents, teachers, and the broader community on the importance of fostering respectful and safe relationships.
Recognizing the Signs of Teen Dating Violence
Dating violence can manifest in many forms, including emotional, physical, sexual, and digital abuse. Some common warning signs include:
- Extreme jealousy or insecurity – A partner who constantly checks in, demands passwords, or accuses the other of cheating.
- Controlling behavior – Making all decisions, dictating what their partner wears, who they see, or where they go.
- Verbal or emotional abuse – Name-calling, belittling, or making the partner feel worthless.
- Physical harm – Pushing, hitting, or any form of physical aggression.
- Sexual coercion or assault – Pressuring or forcing a partner into sexual activity.
- Social isolation – Encouraging or forcing their partner to cut off friends and family.
- Threats or intimidation – Using fear or threats to maintain control.
How to Help
If you suspect someone is in an abusive relationship, there are ways to offer support:
- Listen without judgment – Allow them to talk about their experiences without blaming them.
- Provide resources – Share contact information for hotlines such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-SAFE) or loveisrespect.org.
- Encourage them to talk to a trusted adult – A teacher, school counselor, or parent can offer guidance and support.
- Help them create a safety plan – This may include identifying safe places, people to call, or planning how to leave the relationship safely.
How to Get Involved
There are many ways to raise awareness and support efforts to prevent teen dating violence:
- Wear orange – The official color of TDVAM is orange, and wearing it can spark conversations.
- Share on social media – Use hashtags like #TDVAM, #LoveIsRespect, and #HealthyRelationships to spread awareness.
- Educate yourself and others – Attend workshops, read up on resources, and talk to teens about healthy relationships.
- Support organizations – Donate or volunteer with groups like Love Is Respect, Break the Cycle, or The National Domestic Violence Hotline.
- Host events – Schools, community centers, and youth groups can organize discussions, poster campaigns, or awareness walks.
Final Thoughts
Teen dating violence is a serious issue, but by raising awareness, offering support, and promoting healthy relationships, we can make a difference. Every young person deserves to feel safe, valued, and respected in their relationships. This February, take the time to educate yourself and others, speak up, and help create a future free from dating violence.
For more information and resources, visit www.loveisrespect.org or call/text loveisrespect at 866-331-9474.