How common is teen dating violence?

“February is not only the month of love but also a time to raise awareness about a crucial issue affecting many young lives – teen dating violence.  Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is a dedicated campaign aimed at educating teenagers, parents, educators, and communities about the signs, prevention, and intervention of teen dating violence.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 1 in 11 female and 1 in 15 male high school students have reported experiencing physical violence from an intimate partner. Teens that identify as LGBTQ+ will experience dating violence at a higher rate than their peers.  These alarming statistics emphasize the urgency of addressing teen dating violence and promoting awareness within our community.

Teenagers who experience dating violence may face challenges in seeking help due to fear, shame, or lack of awareness.  The YWCA Greater Lafayette is bringing awareness to this issue and working to ensure teens know they are not alone.  This month, we are providing toolkits to local schools and youth serving organizations with information they can use to bring attention to this issue. 

Our Outreach Coordinator has provided presentations in schools about dating violence including how to recognize it and how to help a friend.  You will see on our social media posts about violence in teen relationships.  Our hope is to educate everyone about this issue and help support those who are in violent relationships.   We invite you to join us in working toward a safer community by talking about violence in teen relationships and how to get help.  Together, we could save a young life from the effects of violence.”

Learn more and find support.

As parents, friends, community members, and allies of our youth, we have a duty to educate ourselves and others about teen dating violence and other harmful actions facing our youth. Here are a few resources to save and share with others that might need them.

• Get connected with a professional. Caring for your mental health is important! Family Health Clinic Behavioral Health and other mental health support organizations can provide a variety of services and resources to help you navigate the difficult seasons of life.
• YWCA Greater Lafayette offers services such as Legal Advocacy, Support Groups, Emergency Shelter, Women’s wellness, and many more.
• LoveisRespect.org | National Domestic Violence Hotline is the organization behind Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Check out their website to learn about healthy relationships, how to create your own 2024 Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month Action Guide, and more.
• Know Your IX is a survivor- and youth-led project of Advocates for Youth, aiming to empower students to end sexual and dating violence in their schools. They provide education, training, advocacy, and resources about the civil rights law Title IX.