Teen Dating Violence Awareness

February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month (TDVAM). This is an issue that impacts everyone - not just teens - but their parents, teachers, friends and communities as well. Together, we can raise the nation's awareness about teen dating violence and promote safe, healthy relationships.

One in four Wisconsin youth in a relationship say they have been called names, harassed, or put down by their partner through mobile devices. Two in three Wisconsin youth who were in an abusive relationship never told anyone about the abuse.

Youth stay silent about abuse because they do not know what to do. We need to educate youth about the warning signs of abuse and tell them what abuse really means.

At a time when an estimated 1 in 3 teens will experience dating violence, we all must take this opportunity to amplify our efforts and shine a spotlight on this important issue.

What is the impact of teen dating violence?
Nationwide, youth aged 12 to 19 experience the highest rates of rape and sexual assault. Studies show that approximately 10% of adolescents report being the victim of physical violence at the hands of an intimate partner during the previous year. Girls are particularly vulnerable to experience violence in their relationships and are more likely to suffer long-term behavioral and health consequences, including suicide attempts, eating disorders, and drug use.

Adolescents in abusive relationships often carry these unhealthy patterns of violence into future relationships. Indeed, children who are victimized or witness violence frequently bring this experience with them to the playground the classroom, later into teen relationships and, ultimately, they can end up the victims and perpetrators of adult intimate partner violence. 

If you or someone you know needs help and is in an abusive relationship, please know that the Red Cliff Family Violence Prevention Program Staff are here to help! We have advocates available and the help is free and confidential. You can call 715-779-3706 and ask for an advocate to talk to.