February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM). The Resource Center for Domestic Violence defines teen dating violence (TeenDV) as a pattern of abuse, or threat of abuse, against teenagers who are dating, “hooking up” or or in other types of romantic situations.

The tactics used to victimize a young person can take different forms, including verbal, emotional, physical, sexual and digital. TeenDV happens in diverse groups and cultures, across sexual orientations, identities, religions and ethnic backgrounds.

Every teen deserves healthy relationships in their lives. Encourage the young people in your life to talk openly about respect, consent and boundaries. Discuss with them what healthy relationships look like and how to keep them that way. loveisrespect.org provides free materials for promoting teen dating violence prevention and education.

If you or someone you know is in an abusive dating relationship or situation, contact us for confidential, free services including counseling, to help: call 340.773.9272, or use our contact form.