Topics like dating abuse and unhealthy relationships can be difficult to talk about, especially for young people. The statistics tell us a story we can’t ignore:
- One in ten high school students has been purposefully hit, slapped, or hurt by a boyfriend or girlfriend.
- One in six college women has been sexually abused in a dating relationship.1https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/teendatingviolence/fastfact.html
The repercussions of teen dating violence are impossible to ignore – it affects not just the young people victimized but also their families, friends, schools, and communities. The impacts of this violence last long after. Teens who suffer dating abuse are at higher risk for substance abuse, eating disorders, risky sexual behavior, thoughts of suicide, & violent behavior.2https://www.loveisrespect.org/pdf/Dating_Abuse_Statistics.pdf
Throughout February, FSC joins organizations and individuals nationwide to highlight the need to educate young people about dating violence, teach healthy relationship skills and prevent the devastating cycle of abuse.
The theme for 2022 TDVAM is “Talk About It”; a call to action for young people and those who support them to engage in meaningful conversations about healthy relationships and navigate what may be unhealthy or even abusive. All throughout this month our social media posts and online trainings will focus on facts and tools to address teen dating violence.
How can you get involved?
- Check out our resources on domestic and dating violence.
- Participate in Wear #Orange4Love Day on Tuesday, February 8th. Wear orange to raise awareness of teen dating abuse and promote healthy relationships. Post photos of you and your friend wearing orange with the hashtag #Orange4LoveDay on your social media sites.
- Follow FSC’s social media channels and like, comment, or share our content. Share your own thoughts using #TalkAboutIt and #TDVAM2022.
