Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
- Diversity & Inclusion Ministry
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Observed throughout February, Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month raises awareness about dating violence and gender-based abuse among adolescents. The teen years are a critical time for social development and identity formation, and for many young people, romantic relationships are a healthy part of that growth. For others, however, dating violence is a frightening and harmful reality.
Teen dating violence affects 1 in 12 teens in the United States, according to the CDC, with female-identifying and LGBTQ+ teens at higher risk of experiencing physical or sexual violence. Abuse increasingly takes place online as well as in person. The consequences can be severe and long-lasting, including higher rates of anxiety, depression, substance use, and suicidal thoughts. Prevention is possible, however, through education that equips adolescents of all genders with tools for healthy relationships, consent, and mutual respect.
Scripture
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” — 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NIV)
Prayer
God of love, we pray for the care and wellbeing of our young people. We pray that those who are inclined to harm others seek support and receive the compassion and training they need to learn healthier patterns. We pray that those who have been harmed find safety, freedom from violence, and futures defined by healthy love. Guide the adults in our community to be open communicators about consent, good models of mutual respect, and non-judgmental listeners when teens need support.
Amen.
Action
Educate yourself and the young people in your care about the early signs of dating and intimate partner abuse.
Give teens language and clear action plans to help them practice healthy consent and boundaries.
Create trust by reminding teens they are not alone and can turn to caring adults in times of uncertainty or fear.
Model respect in your own relationships, demonstrating what healthy love looks like in daily life.
