“Respect That!” February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

This blog is about dating violence and we understand that discussions about this topic can be triggering for some. Please take care of yourself. You can get help through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at +1 800-799-7923.

As February wraps up, we want to remind everyone that February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM), a month dedicated to raising awareness about violence within teenage relationships. 2025’s theme is “Respect That,” using that phrase as a mindset for teenagers, reminding them to be aware of their partner’s boundaries. Considering one-third of teens in high school in the United States have been victims of dating violence, it is essential to address this year. 

Dating abuse is a pattern of controlling behavior where one partner in the relationship uses fear in order to control the other to gain power over their partner. This power they hold against their partner forces the other into positions that they would not normally be in, mentally or physically. Anyone no matter race, gender, sexuality, or grade can be subject to this sort of violence, which is why it is important to spot the pattern immediately.

There are many signs of dating violence in teenage relationships, but often they are hard to spot considering many want to think the best for their friends or even themselves. Listed below are common signs you or your friend may have gone through dating violence:

1. Spending little time with friends or family, instead spending the majority of their free time alone or with their partner
2. Injuries such as bruises or cuts without any reason or vague reason for having them.
3. Giving up hobbies or interests that brought them joy in the past. 

Some may also see that their friend’s partner or their own partner is not suitable or healthy for a relationship. Here are some patterns instilled in people that might have dating violence tendencies:

1. Being overly possessive or selfish when it comes to their partner. 
2. Putting down their partner in a way that their partner feels uncomfortable rather than safe. This can be in the form of name-calling or crude insults
3. Pressuring their partner to have sex or being rough within their movements. 

If you or your friend is experiencing dating violence, do not be afraid to stand against it. The best options are to tell a trusted adult as soon as possible, get away from the relationship as quickly and safely as possible, or in some situations, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at +1 800-799-7923.

In the meanwhile, there are also ways to show support to those going through Teen Dating Violence if you are unaware of their personal situations or want to create a safe space for them. 

• Paint the Town Orange: During the month of February, show solidarity with those going through teen dating violence by wearing the color orange and encouraging other students at your school to do the same. Decorate the halls of your school with orange posters and streamers, spreading the word about TDVAM. 
• Social Media: 90% of teenagers use social media such as TikTok, Instagram, SnapChat, or Twitter, meaning that using social media to spread information about TDVAM will be highly influential and reach the right audience. Share posts about dating abuse as well as infographics. TeenSource’s Instagram has many resources you can share with your peers! Reach out to those you may not see everyday by using social media. 

In the end, being knowledgeable about Teen Dating Violence by engaging during this month is essential to the safety of yourself and your friends. Remember to “Respect That” during this month and every month, and be mindful for anyone who may be going through dating abuse.