Teen dating violence is a relationship that consists of physical, mental, and emotional violence towards a partner’s relationship. Teen dating violence can activate many unhealthy behaviors such as: anger, jealousy, guilt, “put-me-downs”, and hostility.
Teen dating violence has a lot of negative consequences. Healthy relationship behaviors can have a positive effect on a teen’s development but unhealthy, abusive, or violent relationships can have very severe consequences
Youth who experience dating violence are more likely to experience:
- Depression and anxiety
- Engagement in unhealthy behaviors
- Involvement in antisocial behaviors
- Lower grades in school and poor school performance
- Increased risk of pregnancy and contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
- Increased risk of substance abuse, eating disorders, and/or risky sexual behavior
- Thoughts about suicide
Dating Violence can be prevented when teens , families, organizations, and communities work together to help prevention these things.
Remember:
- You have the right to privacy.
- You have the right to feel safe and respected.
- You have the right to say no.
- You have the right to hangout with your friends.
- You have the right to end an unhealthy relationship.
- You have the right to live free from violence and abuse.
Click here to learn more about your relationship rights.
Additional resources:
- National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline: 1 (866) 331-9474
- Loveisrespect.org
- Futureswithoutviolence.org
- Talk to a trusted adult, counselor, BridgeUP fellow, or call/text Renee Cohall, LMSW and BeWell co-director at (646) 245-4000 if you need help.
