In the continuing effort to provide education about Domestic and Dating violence the Winn Parish, DART Rural Advocate Annie Goods sends a reminder that February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.

She explains that dating violence is when someone you are seeing romantically harms you in some way, whether it is physically, sexually, emotionally, or all three. About 1-in-12 high school students experience physical dating violence.

There are consequences, she says.  Unhealthy, abusive, or violent relationships can have short-and-long term negative effects, including severe consequences, on a developing teen. Youth who are victims of teen dating violence are most likely to:

*Experience depression and anxiety symptoms

*Engage in unhealthy behaviors, like using tobacco, drugs, and alcohol

*Think about suicide

*Exhibit antisocial behaviors, like lying, theft, bulling, or hitting

Violence in an adolescent relationship sets the stage for future relationship problems, including intimate partner, violence and sexual violence perpetration and/or victimization throughout life. For example, youth who are victims of dating violence in high school are at higher risk for victimization during college.

Supporting healthy, nonviolent relationships could reduce TDV and prevent its harmful, long-lasting effects on individuals, their families, and their communities. During the pre-teen and teen years, it is critical for youth to begin learning skills to create and maintain healthy way. Research also highlights the need for prevention efforts that address the unique needs of teens who are at greater risk of experiencing teen dating violence.

Goods cautions to watch for warning signs.  It can be difficult to tell her the difference between a healthy, unhealthy and abusive relationship. While there are many warning signs of abuse, here are ten of the most common to look for:   Checking your cell phone of emails without permission;  Possessiveness;  Constant put downs;  Telling you what to do;  Extreme jealousy or insecurity;  Explosive temper;  Isolating you from family or friends;  Making false accusations;  and Mood swings.