The Basics
What is dating violence?
Dating violence is when one person in a romantic relationship is abusive to the other person. Dating violence includes emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. It can happen in same-sex and opposite-sex relationships.
Both boys and girls can be unhealthy or unsafe in a relationship. That’s why it’s so important to talk to all kids and teens about how to be in respectful, healthy relationships.
Who is at risk for dating violence?
While dating violence can happen to anyone, teens may be more at risk of being in unhealthy relationships if they:
- Use alcohol or drugs
- Are depressed
- Hang out with friends who are violent
- Have trouble controlling their anger
- Struggle with learning in school
- Have sex with more than one person
