Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month: A Guide to Resources for Teens, Parents & Educators by Yayoi Kataoka Koba
February marked Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM), — a time for reflection, education, and support as we come together to foster safe and respectful relationships. This year’s theme, “Respect That”, emphasizes both action and mindset—treating partners with dignity, listening to their viewpoints, respecting their boundaries, and valuing their autonomy. It's a call to not only understand but actively practice these principles, as defined by the Love is Respect Youth Council.
At Intuition, we believe that everyone deserves a healthy and supportive relationship. Understanding teen dating violence (TDV) and knowing where to turn for help can make a real difference. Whether you’re a teen, parent, or educator, having the right resources and conversations can empower you and those around you to navigate relationships with confidence and care.
Understanding Teen Dating Violence
Healthy relationships are built on open communication, respect for boundaries, mutual support, and understanding. Learning about these principles before or during a relationship is crucial in preventing dating violence.
However, as key statistics show, teen dating violence remains a serious issue, and unfortunately, some teens experience abuse, which can take many forms:
Physical – Hitting, shoving, or any unwanted physical force.
Sexual – Forcing or coercing sexual contact without consent, including unwanted touching, kissing, or intercourse.
Psychological or Emotional – Manipulating, gaslighting, or verbal threats that erode self-worth.
Digital – Controlling a partner through social media, excessive texting, or online harassment.
Other forms – Economic abuse, harassment, and stalking.
Key Statistics:
1 in 3 U.S. teens experience some form of dating abuse before adulthood.
Only 33% of teens in abusive relationships confide in someone about it.
Nearly 1 in 4 teens experience digital abuse, making online harassment a growing concern.
Recognizing warning signs—such as extreme jealousy, isolation from friends, or controlling behavior—can help protect yourself and your loved ones. You are not alone, and support is always available.
Key Resources for Education & Support
To help teens, parents, and educators navigate this issue with confidence and clarity, we’ve gathered a list of trusted resources. These organizations provide guidance, education, and direct support when it’s needed most.
For Teens: Recognizing & Preventing Abuse
Love is Respect – Practical tools, quizzes, and guides to help you build healthy relationships.
Scarleteen – Provides inclusive, comprehensive, and supportive sexuality and relationship information.
RAINN – Safety for Students – Provides strategies to enhance personal safety, support peers, and address sexual violence on campus.
For Parents & Educators: How to Support Teens
National Resource Center on Domestic Violence – A comprehensive library for deepening understanding and action steps.
VAWnet – Preventing & Responding to Teen Dating Violence – A curated collection of resources, offering strategies for prevention and response.
CDC – Teen Dating Violence – Provides data, definitions, and prevention strategies to address teen dating violence.
For Immediate Help & Confidential Support
Love is Respect – Call 1-800-787-3224 or text “LOVEIS” to 22522
National Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7) – Call 1-800-799-7233 or text “START” to 88788.
RAINN (Sexual Violence Support) – Call 1-800-656-4673.
How Can You Get Involved?
Every action counts. Here’s how you can help raise awareness and take steps toward preventing teen dating violence:
Share resources on social media using the Love is Respect TDVAM Social Media Guide.
Start conversations about what healthy relationships look like.
Promote awareness events, workshops, or school initiatives to create a supportive community.
Take Action Today
Navigating relationships can feel overwhelming, no matter your role, but you are never alone. Whether you are a teen, parent, or educator, by learning, sharing, and supporting one another, we can all contribute to fostering a culture of mutual respect. Together, we can create a future where every teen feels empowered, valued, and supported.
We encourage students, educators, and families to explore these resources, start conversations, and advocate for healthy relationships. If you or someone you know needs support, help is just a call or message away. Take the first step toward building a healthier, safer future—for a world where every teen feels respected and cared for.