Monthly Feature: February

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month Shines Spotlight on Healthy Relationships in New York

One in three teens experiencing some form of dating abuse before age 18

New York, N.Y. — As April unfolds, communities across New York and the nation turn their attention to Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM), a time dedicated to raising awareness about the pervasive issue of dating violence among adolescents.

Observed annually in February at the national level, New York extends its focus into April to amplify efforts, educate young people, and foster healthier relationships. With one in three teens experiencing some form of dating abuse before age 18, this initiative underscores the urgency of prevention and support.

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, established through advocacy efforts and reinforced by the Violence Against Women Act, aims to break the cycle of abuse by equipping teens with knowledge and resources.

In New York, the Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV) leads the charge, offering tools like the Healthy Relationship Quiz and campaigns such as “Choose Your Own Adventure: Spot the Flags.” These initiatives help teens identify red flags—such as controlling behavior or emotional manipulation—and green flags, like mutual respect and trust, in their relationships.

Dating violence encompasses physical, emotional, sexual, or digital abuse within a romantic relationship.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it affects millions of U.S. teens, with girls, transgender, and gender-nonconforming youth at higher risk. Beyond immediate harm, the long-term effects can include depression, substance abuse, and patterns of violence in future relationships.

In New York, where every county has a domestic violence program, resources are readily available, yet awareness remains critical to ensuring teens know where to turn.

What should New Yorkers be aware of this month?

The signs of abuse aren’t always obvious. Physical violence, like hitting or pushing, is clear, but emotional abuse—constant criticism, isolation from friends, or threats—can be subtler.

Digital abuse, such as monitoring a partner’s phone or sharing private images without consent, has surged with technology’s role in teen lives.

OPDV emphasizes that one supportive adult can make a difference, offering a lifeline to a teen hesitant to speak out.

For teens navigating these challenges, experts share practical advice.

“Trust your instincts,” says Dr. Maria Gonzalez, a counselor with the New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline. “If something feels off, talk to someone you trust—a friend, parent, or teacher.”

Setting boundaries, communicating openly, and recognizing when to leave a relationship are key skills. Teens are also encouraged to reach out to the hotline at 800-942-6906 or text 844-997-2121 for confidential support.

The importance of TDVAM lies in its dual focus: prevention and empowerment.

Healthy relationships built on respect and equality benefit not just individuals but entire communities. Governor Kathy Hochul, in a recent proclamation, highlighted the state’s commitment to ending teen dating violence, noting that education and early intervention can stop abuse before it escalates.

With 10% of adolescents reporting physical violence from a partner annually, according to youth.gov, the stakes are high. In New York, programs like the One Love initiative empower teens to spot unhealthy dynamics and take action.

Why does this matter now?

The rise of technology-facilitated abuse—cyberstalking or coercive control via social media—adds urgency. Teens spend hours online, making them vulnerable to new forms of harm.

TDVAM’s 2025 theme, “Respect That,” chosen by the love is respect Youth Council, emphasizes dignity and autonomy in relationships, resonating with New York’s diverse youth population.

The call to action is clear: get involved.

Wear orange on February 11—extended into April in New York—to show solidarity, a tradition rooted in the state’s Wear Orange Day. Share resources on social media with hashtags like #TDVAM2025 and #RespectThatNY.

Parents, educators, and peers can start conversations about consent and boundaries.

Visit opdv.ny.gov for toolkits, or join events like OPDV’s upcoming discussion on masculinity and allyship at John Jay College. Every step counts toward safer futures.

In a state as vibrant as New York, TDVAM is more than a month—it’s a movement.

By raising awareness, offering support, and encouraging action, it aims to ensure every teen knows they deserve respect, safety, and love.

New York Highlights Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (Feb. 2, 2025)

Talk to a Teen Today. Encourage adults—parents, teachers, or mentors—to start a conversation with a teen about healthy relationships, consent, and recognizing red flags. This fosters open dialogue and builds trust.

Wear Orange and Share. Urge people to wear orange on April 11 (New York’s extended Wear Orange Day) and post on social media with hashtags like #TDVAM2025 or #RespectThatNY, spreading awareness and resources.

Learn the Signs, Save a Life. Prompt individuals to visit opdv.ny.gov or loveisrespect.org to educate themselves on the signs of dating violence and share that knowledge with others, emphasizing early intervention.

Support the Hotline. Inspire people to share or use the New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline (800-942-6906 or text 844-997-2121), ensuring teens know help is available 24/7.

#TDVAM2025, #RespectThatNY, #TeenSafety,
#HealthyRelationships, #NYAgainstAbuse

Tags: Teen Dating Violence, Awareness Month, New York,
Healthy Relationships, Support, Prevention, Education