Real Talk: Teen Dating Violence and How to Stop It

What is Teen Dating Violence?

Teen dating violence (TDV) is a serious issue that affects millions of young people across the United States. Dating violence can happen in person, online, or through technology. It’s a form of intimate partner violence that can show up in different ways:

  • Physical violence: When a partner hurts or tries to hurt you by hitting, kicking, shoving, or using any kind of physical force.

  • Sexual violence: Forcing or pressuring someone into sexual acts or touching without consent. This also includes digital behaviors like sharing sexual pictures without permission or sexting someone who hasn’t agreed.

  • Psychological aggression: Using words, actions, or threats to manipulate, control, or emotionally harm a partner.

  • Stalking: Repeated, unwanted attention or contact (in person or online) that causes fear, stress, or concern for safety.

Teen dating violence doesn’t just hurt in the moment—it can affect your health, self-esteem, and relationships long into adulthood. But here’s the good news: violence is preventable, and learning how to recognize the warning signs is the first step.

How Common is Teen Dating Violence?

Unfortunately, it’s more common than you might think:

  • Nearly 1.5 million high school students in the U.S. experience physical abuse from a dating partner each year.

  • 1 in 3 teens (especially girls) report being a victim of physical, emotional, or verbal abuse in a dating relationship.

  • 1 in 10 high school students has been purposefully hit, slapped, or physically hurt by a partner.

  • Among female victims of dating violence, most are between the ages of 16–19.

How Can Teens Prevent Dating Violence?

Preventing dating violence starts with knowing what a healthy relationship looks like and understanding consent. Healthy relationships are built on respect, trust, honesty, and support—not control or fear.

Here are some steps you can take:

  • Learn the warning signs of unhealthy or abusive behavior.

  • Speak up if you feel unsafe—talk to a trusted adult, teacher, counselor, or friend.

  • Practice consent in your own relationships. Consent means freely agreeing to something—without pressure, guilt, or fear.

  • Support your friends. If someone you know is in a toxic or violent relationship, listen, believe them, and encourage them to get help.

Resources for Teens

If you or someone you know is experiencing dating violence, you are not alone. These resources can help:

  • Love is Respect – Call 1-866-331-9474 or text “LOVEIS” to 22522 for confidential support. www.loveisrespect.org

  • Break the Cycle – A site focused on ending relationship violence for young people. www.breakthecycle.org

  • RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) – 24/7 support for survivors of sexual violence. Call 800-656-4673 or visit www.rainn.org.

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org.

Rebecca White