Teen Dating Violence

Teen dating violence (TDV) is real and it’s happening. It’s not “kids being kids” or "boys being boys." It’s not “teenage drama” or something to “deal with.” TDV has an impact. About one in three teens report that they have experienced physical, emotional, or sexual abuse in their youth.

It is real. It is intense. Young people need to be believed.

We work to create a world free of TDV and domestic violence by working across communities so everyone has the skills to promote healthy relationships and know how to respond to abuse.

Youth Prevention Programs

Training and support for educators

Teachers and support staff have everyday access to and relationships with students, so we train and support education communities so they have the knowledge and skills to support their students when they disclose, cause harm, or want to learn.

Supporting youth/peer leadership groups

Young people constantly learn from their peers. We support peer to peer educations groups so youth have the skills to bring conversations about relationships and accountability to their communities.

Workshops for parents/families

We provide workshops for parents, families, and supportive adults so adults can model healthy relationship behaviors, be empathetic, and have conversations that reinforce lessons learned in school from teachers and peers.

PAVE (Peers Against Violence Educators)

PAVE is a peer leadership club at Waltham High School. PAVE helps youth develop healthy relationships and practice supportive communication skills, engages youth and invested adults as active bystanders in identifying and responding to dating violence, and fosters youth leadership skills.

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You can help

When asked, the majority of young people say they would talk with a trusted adult or friend about TDV they are experiencing. However, a negative, blaming, shaming, or doubting response silences and isolates, which can replicate patterns of abuse. Having a supportive person in our life is an indicator/ predictor of resilience. That can be your community, your family, or your chosen family. You might be that person for someone.

 

Learn more about How to Talk With Teens About Relationships in our webinar recording.