Column: What we all need to know about teen dating violence
Submitted by paula on Wed, 02/17/2021 - 5:05pm
Every February, Live Violence Free joins organizations and schools across the country to raise awareness of teen dating violence. Dating abuse is a pattern of destructive behaviors used to exert power and control over a dating partner. Dating violence usually involves a series of abusive behaviors, and it can happen to anyone, regardless of their age, financial status, ethnicity, gender, or background.
In the U.S., 1 in 3 teens will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse by someone they are in a relationship with, and two-thirds of teens never tell anyone. And almost half (43 percent) of college women report experiencing violent and abusive dating behaviors.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, so much of our lives have turned digital, including abuse.
Digital dating abuse amongst teens involves using technologies like texting and social media to bully, harass, stalk, or intimidate a partner. Many young people are attending classes online and isolated from their family and friends. COVID-19 puts people at higher risk for abuse, especially digital abuse because nearly everything we do is online. Any external factors that add stress, isolation, and financial strain can create circumstances where safety is further compromised. It
is now even more critical for us to connect with and support those who might be experiencing abuse.
At LVF, we believe that everyone has the right to a safe and healthy relationship. We also believe that by building communities of support, we can come together to support those affected by unhealthy relationships and abuse.
To learn the warning signs of dating abuse, what’s essential in a healthy relationship, and how to have conversations about abuse and violence, visit https://liveviolencefree.org. I invite everyone in the community to get involved and support our mission by volunteering, donating, and educating yourselves and others. Together we can empower choices and inspire change.
Chelcee Thomas
Executive Director
Live Violence Free