Jane Garibay

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, a time to spotlight the dangers and warning signs of dating violence to help protect our youth.  

Data shows 26% of high school students in Connecticut have experienced verbally or emotionally abusive relationships, 9% have experienced physical abuse, and 11% have experienced sexual abuse. At the same time, 82% of parents nationwide are unaware that teen dating violence is an issue.  

We must continue educating parents, guardians, community leaders, and friends on understanding what constitutes dating violence and what we can do to protect our young people against this kind of abuse. 58% of parents cannot correctly identify all the warning signs of dating violence. Please click here to learn more about dating violence early warnings.  

Healthy relationships are built on trust, independence, honesty, and kindness. Teaching our youth to value and seek out healthy relationships is of paramount importance not only to their physical and emotional well-being, but also to their development. See here for ten signs of a healthy relationship. 

All adolescents can experience dating violence. However, young women and trans and gender non-conforming youth are at a disproportionality higher risk of experiencing this kind of abuse. Click here for more information and resources on dating violence in LGBTQ+ relationships. 

If you believe your teen or one of their friends is in danger – help is available. Individuals and families can contact CT Safe Connect from anywhere 24 hours a day, 365 days per year, to receive a thorough assessment of needs, emotional support, safety planning and options. Contact them by calling or texting (888) 774-2900, send a confidential email to safeconnect@ctcadv.org or use their web chat. All services are confidential, safe, free, and voluntary.     

Find more information and useful resources on this issue below. 
Interval House offers a large range of resources on teen dating violence. Resources are available in both English and Spanish.
CT.gov has a large range of resources covering teen dating violence and domestic abuse, as well as relevant legislation.
Click here to read President Joe Biden's proclamation on Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.