One in 10 teens reported being physically abused by a boyfriend or girlfriend in the last year. Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is a national effort to raise awareness and protect teens from violence.
You can make a difference: Encourage schools, community-based organizations, parents, and teens to come together to prevent teen dating violence.
How can Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month make a difference?
We can use this month to raise awareness about teen dating violence and take action toward a solution – both at home and in our communities.
Here are just a few ideas:
- Encourage parents to talk with their teens about healthy relationships.
- Ask teachers to hold classroom discussions about dating violence and prevention – or to invite speakers in to talk about these issues.
- Help schools create policies that support healthy relationships and involve student voices.
How can I help spread the word?
We’ve made it easier for you to make a difference. This toolkit is full of ideas to help you take action today. For example:
Get Involved
Take action to raise awareness about teen dating violence.
- Write a letter to a public official – like a mayor or governor – asking them to recognize Teen Dating Violence Month.
- Host an event, like a play or a poetry slam, to raise awareness in your community.
- Join a group that supports the movement against dating abuse.
- Share materials from loveisrespect about healthy relationships and the warning signs of abuse.
- If you are concerned about a loved one, reach out for support.
Adapted from Break the Cycle.
Contact the Break the Cycle at teenDVmonth@breakthecycle.org for more information and materials.
