TDVAM
During February, organizations and individuals across the country are raising awareness about the importance of educating young people about dating violence, promoting healthy relationship skills, and preventing abusive behavior.
Alarming Statistics
1 in 4
On average, 1 in 4 teenage girls in a relationship are repeatedly verbally abused
1.5 Million
Approx. 1.5 Million High School Students Experience Partner Abuse Every Year in the U.S.
Half
About half of teens who experience dating violence or rape attempt suicide
How common is teen dating violence?
Unfortunately, teen dating violence is more common than most people realize. In fact, one in three teens in the U.S. will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse by someone they are in a relationship with before they reach adulthood. Shockingly, almost half (43%) of college women report experiencing violent and abusive dating behaviors. To combat this growing problem, Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month aims to educate young people about the prevalence of dating violence and how they can prevent it.
Dating abuse refers to a pattern of harmful behaviors aimed at controlling a dating partner. While we define dating violence as a pattern, it's important to note that the first instance of abuse is still considered dating violence. Typically, dating violence is made up of a series of abusive behaviors over time.
