February marks Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, dedicated to promoting respect and healthy teen relationships. Established in 2010, the month encourages youth to spread awareness of an often-underreported issue in teenage relationships. While physical violence may first come to mind when considering “dating violence,” the term encompasses sexual violence, emotional abuse, and controlling behaviors in a relationship. In some cases, it can prove challenging to determine “what counts.” Generally, inflicting physical harm, non-consensual touching, hostile verbal or online communication, and stalking are considered dating violence. According to the CDC, about 1 in 12 teenagers experience dating violence. Unfortunately, female teenagers tend to exhibit a higher risk of experiencing dating violence than males; however, it still impacts teens across all demographics, making February a critical month to address dating violence.
As SADD members, our chapters provide an effective platform to bring awareness within our school communities to an overlooked issue. The Love is Respect Youth Council announced this year’s theme: Respect That. You could discuss it at club meetings, post on social media, make announcements, or dedicate a day to wearing orange, the color associated with teen dating violence awareness. Additionally, consider sharing and promoting positive dating behaviors to highlight healthy relationships. If you have experienced dating violence, share your story if you feel comfortable because it may benefit someone enduring a similar experience and give them the courage to speak up.
As Valentine’s and P.S. I Love You Day roll around, you may want to consider incorporating a teen dating violence awareness campaign to augment school-wide recognition. This year, Valentine’s and P.S. I Love You Day fall on February 14th and promote Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month’s core values: love, respect, and positivity. You may tie P.S. I Love You Day into Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month to support mental health in the school community. Teen dating violence may cause depression and anxiety, resulting in unhealthy coping mechanisms. Consider encouraging cards and reminding students that SADD and school counselors serve as safe spaces for students struggling in relationships.
Remember to prioritize your personal boundaries in your current and future relationships and ensure that whoever you date respects them. If you feel uncomfortable or disrespected, do not feel that you are overreacting and invalidate your feelings; discuss what you think with your partner and set boundaries early to prevent grave issues. If you notice concerning behaviors in your loved ones’ relationships, they might appreciate you looking out for them and sharing your concerns. If you begin seeing signs in your relationship or have been experiencing forms of dating violence, ending the relationship would typically be the best course of action.
If you find yourself in a dangerous situation, Love is Respect website, and the National Domestic Violence Hotline are great resources to seek help. You can turn to parents, guidance counselors, trusted adults, and close friends if you need support ending a toxic relationship.
Respect others, but do never forget to respect yourself.
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For more information on TDVAM programming, or ways to engage your chapter for February events, check out sadd.org/programs.
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