Dating Violence and Prevention

Five teens talking and laughing while sitting outside on a brick wall

Dating abuse is a big problem in the U.S. One in 3 teens will experience dating violence, and 1 in 5 will experience severe physical violence from a dating partner. The numbers are even higher for LGBTQ youth. Young people who experience dating violence are more likely than their peers to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety, engage in unhealthy or antisocial behaviors, and think about suicide.

The easiest way to stop dating or domestic violence is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Everyone can help prevent violence, including parents, teachers, clergy, coaches, friends, and family.

We put together three things you can do to help prevent dating violence.

Talk about healthy relationships

It’s never too early to start talking with kids and teens about healthy relationships. This includes talking in an age-appropriate way about consent, establishing boundaries, and communicating honestly. Teach them to recognize signs of an unhealthy or abusive relationship. If you don’t know how to start the conversation, check out Love is Respect’s info on healthy relationships.

Listen and give support

Avoiding talking about violence doesn’t help. Let the young people in your life know that you’re a safe person to talk to. Listen to their concerns and approach from a place of empathy. Saying, “I’m concerned about you, and it’s not okay for anyone to be treated like this,” can help a young person hear your concerns. Encourage young people to seek additional help from a teen dating violence program, advocate, or counselor.

LifeWire has a Youth Advocate who works directly with teens experiencing dating violence. Call our 24-Hour Helpline at 425-746-1940 or check out our Youth Advocacy Flyer for more information.

Empower bystanders to help others

Teach young people what to do if they witness someone else experiencing abuse. Encourage them to take action when a friend is in an unhealthy relationship, first by talking and offering support.

How to support a friend

Choose a good time and place to talk.
Check for immediate safety.
Ask questions and listen without judgment.
Emphasize that you are concerned.
Let them know that the violence is not their fault.
Let them know that NO abuse is ever acceptable.
Let them know that they can make their own choices about what to do.
Leave the door open—make it clear you are available if they ever want to engage again.

Prevention Resources

Loveisrespect engages, educates, and empowers young people to prevent and end abusive relationships.
That’s Not Cool works to decrease technology-related teen dating violence and increase awareness about healthy teen relationships.

Take Action

Make a difference

You can make a difference to your family, friends, and community by taking these simple actions:

1. Practice healthy relationship skills: Learn about the skills necessary to practice healthy communication with others. Talk to others about what healthy relationships mean to you and model respectful behavior in your relationships.

2. Be supportive: If you think someone close to you is experiencing abuse, ask them about it and offer your support. If you think someone you know is engaging in abusive behavior, talk to them and encourage them to seek help. Continue to check in and remain connected and supportive.

3. Stay in the conversation: Help shape the movement against domestic violence. Speak up to stop attitudes and behaviors that oppress others. Be a source of information about domestic violence.

4. Learn about and share resources: Everyone has a role to play in creating healthy, safe, and vibrant communities. Explore our website to find out how you can get involved and make a difference.