February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

Posted: February 2, 2022

Helping Services for Youth & Families is highlighting Teen Dating Violence Awareness during the month of February. According to the CDC, nearly a quarter of adult victims of rape, physical violence and stalking by an intimate partner first experience partner violence between the ages of 11 and 17. In addition, nearly 1 in 11 female and approximately 1 in 14 male high school students report having experienced physical dating violence in the last year. 

Dating violence is not only physical abuse but may also include excessive texting, checking up on, or telling you what to wear or who to hang out with are just a few tactics abusers may use to control their partner. Abusive relationships are all about power and control, and abusive patterns can start at any age.

The Domestic Abuse Resource Center is able to help and all of our services are free and confidential. For information on services or to speak with an advocate, call us on our 24-hour resource line at 800-383-2988 or chat with us at HelpingServices.org/Chat. Everyone deserves to be in a happy and healthy relationship.