By Annie Goods, Winn Parish Dart Advocate
February is recognized as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, a time to highlight the impact unhealthy relationships can have on young people and to promote prevention through education and awareness.
Teen dating violence can have lasting effects on a young person’s health, opportunities, and overall well-being. Experts note that unhealthy relationship patterns often begin early and, if unaddressed, can continue into adulthood. While the issue is serious, prevention efforts show that dating violence is not inevitable and can be reduced when young people are equipped with the right tools and support.
Many teens perceive behaviors such as teasing, name-calling, or controlling actions as normal parts of a relationship. However, these behaviors can escalate into emotional, physical, or sexual abuse. Fear of judgment or consequences often prevents teens from reporting unhealthy relationships to family members, teachers, or friends.
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey indicates teen dating violence remains a significant concern. Among U.S. high school students who reported dating in the 12 months prior to the survey, approximately one in 12 experienced physical dating violence, while about one in 10 experienced sexual dating violence. Female students reported higher rates of both physical and sexual dating violence than their male counterparts.
The effects of teen dating violence can be both immediate and long term. Victims are more likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety, engage in unhealthy behaviors such as tobacco, drug, or alcohol use, and exhibit antisocial behaviors including lying, bullying, or physical aggression. Research also shows an increased risk of suicidal thoughts among youth who experience dating violence. These early experiences can influence future relationships, increasing the likelihood of continued unhealthy or abusive dynamics later in life.
Prevention efforts focus on promoting healthy relationship skills during the preteen and teen years, when young people are forming expectations about relationships. Teaching communication skills, emotional regulation, and mutual respect can help reduce the risk of dating violence. Studies emphasize the importance of targeted prevention strategies that address the needs of teens who are at higher risk.
Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month serves as a reminder that families, schools, and communities all play a role in helping young people build safe, respectful, and healthy relationships that can positively shape their futures.