Respect That: Building Healthy Relationships During Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

Dating should be fun, exciting, and full of self-discovery. But for too many teens, relationships become a source of fear, control, and harm. In the U.S., 1 in 3 teens will experience physical, emotional, or sexual abuse in a dating relationship before adulthood. That’s not just a statistic—it’s a wake-up call.

This February, during Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM), we rally together to educate, advocate, and take action. This year’s theme, “Respect That,” isn’t just a phrase; it’s an active choice to uplift, honor, and value the people we care about. So, what does that look like in a relationship? Let’s break it down.

The Spectrum of Relationships: Healthy, Unhealthy, and Abusive

Relationships exist on a spectrum. Healthy relationships are built on trust, mutual respect, and open communication. Unhealthy relationships might involve jealousy, pressure, or disrespect. Abuse happens when one person uses power and control over their partner through intimidation, manipulation, or violence.

Recognizing the red flags of dating abuse is crucial. Here’s what abuse can look like:

• Physical abuse: Hitting, shoving, spitting, or blocking someone from leaving.

• Emotional abuse: Insults, gaslighting, threats, or controlling who you see or talk to.

• Sexual abuse: Coercion, non-consensual touching, or reproductive control.

• Digital abuse: Monitoring your texts, demanding passwords, or using technology to harass or stalk you.

• Isolation & intimidation: Cutting you off from friends and family, making you feel trapped, or using threats to keep you silent.

  
  

Why Is Dating Abuse So Common Among Teens?

Teen dating violence thrives in silence. Many young people don’t recognize abuse because they mistake control for love. Media normalizes toxic relationships, peer pressure makes it harder to leave, and fear of parental judgment can keep teens from seeking help.

Certain groups face even higher risks. Teens with disabilities, LGBTQ youth, pregnant and parenting teens, and homeless youth are especially vulnerable. They often face additional barriers to escaping abuse, like lack of financial independence, housing, or support from family and friends.

Building a Strong Support System

If you or someone you love is in an unhealthy or abusive relationship, you are not alone. It’s important to reach out to trusted people who can help. A strong support system includes:

• A best friend who listens without judgment.

• Parents or family members who can offer guidance and protection.

• A trusted adult in your community, like a teacher, coach, or mentor.

• Advocates from organizations like love is respect, who provide confidential support and resources.

  
  

Know Your Worth: You Deserve Healthy Love

The most important thing to remember is this: you are worthy of love that is safe, respectful, and affirming. If something feels off, trust yourself. If you feel isolated, pressured, or afraid, reach out. Healthy relationships don’t involve fear or control.

This TDVAM, let’s make a commitment: Respect That—our boundaries, our choices, our worth. Love should never hurt. Let’s work together to stop dating violence before it starts.