The what, why & how of TDVAM
Dating abuse is a pattern of destructive behaviors that exerts power and control over a dating partner. While we define dating violence as a pattern, that doesn’t mean the first instance of abuse is not dating violence. It just recognizes that dating violence usually involves a series of abusive behaviors over a course of time.
Teen dating violence is more common than many people think. One in three teens in the U.S. will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse by someone they are in a relationship with before they become adults. And nearly half (43%) of college women report experiencing violent and abusive dating behaviors. Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month aims to educate young people on the prevalence of dating violence and how they can prevent it.
Every February here at love is respect, we bring awareness to teen dating violence in an effort to stop dating abuse before it starts.
- What is TDVAM?
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Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM) is held throughout the month of February as a way to bring together teens and those who support them in a national effort to raise awareness to teen dating violence. Organizations and schools across the country organize efforts to raise awareness every February, creating a movement of passionate, informed individuals making a difference.
- Why TDVAM?
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Every year, we use different themes to find new ways to build solidarity and support around teen dating abuse.
Each theme is focused on meeting teens where they are at. Past themes have included #1Thing and #KnowYourWorth. Our theme changes each year, but is always focused on helping young people understand what a healthy relationship looks like and how to talk about it.
With so many people speaking in one unified voice during the month of February about teen dating violence, this raises our collective awareness about this critical issue. Only through collaboration will it be possible to stop teen dating abuse.
- How do I get involved during TDVAM?
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We encourage everyone to get involved and help raise awareness. We recognize the power that each one of us has in making a difference. You can host an event at your school, talk to your friends about dating violence, or help make sure others know about love is respect! Our action guides also have other great ideas to try!
