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February 16, 2010

February is National Teen Dating Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month

During the month of February you can hardly turn on the T.V or walk out the door without being bombarded with images of pink and red hearts, chocolates and jewelry, hugs and kisses, Images and icons that embrace love and partnership and encourage each of us to express our feelings towards those that we care about most. February, as it seems, has been selected as the month that we celebrate relationships, but not just the diamond studded, candy laden, blissfully romantic relationships that we see in the stores or on the commercials. February has also been selected as the national Teen Dating Abuse Awareness and Prevention month.

According to the “No means Know” Parent’s Guide to Teen Dating Safety, 81% of parents believe that teen dating violence is not a significant issue, but the statistics are nothing short of shocking.

National studies report:

• 1 in 3 teens in a dating relationship report being abused
• 1 in 2 teens report compromising their beliefs to please their partner
• 1 in 3 girls in a dating relationship report being pressured to have sex
• 1 in 5 teens in a dating relationship reports having been slapped, pushed, or hit

Teens who have been victims of dating violence are at a greatly increased risk of engaging in other unhealthy behaviors such as binge drinking, suicide attempts, physical fighting and sexual activity.

So what can we do about it? As parents, friends, mentors, and teachers we can all help spread awareness and prevent teen dating abuse. Here are some helpful hints to help you prevent teen dating violence!

1. Educate yourself!
   Visit the web site www.nomeansknow.com and read the warning signs that can help indicate and identify unhealthy relationships and abusive behavior.
2. Have a conversation!
   Be sure to create an environment that enables teens to feel safe and comfortable talking with you. Let your teens know that you care about them and thank them for talking openly with you. Listen to your teen and don’t be judgmental. Help them understand why you are concerned and let them know how the behavior makes you feel.
3. Empower your teen!
   Help your teen feel good about them selves. Teach them where to go to get more information. Give them sincere compliments to build their self esteem. Help them get the help they need!

Perhaps the best way to help prevent teen dating abuse is to lead by example! This February, be sure to take time to think about your own actions and relationships and be the best possible role model for the teens that you parent, work with, teach, and care about!

At the upper right of this page are some helpful websites for more information on teen dating abuse.