Preventing Teen Dating Violence

Teens often think some behaviors like teasing and name-calling are a “normal” part of a relationship, but these behaviors can become abusive and develop into serious forms of violence.

• Nearly 1 in 11 female and about 1 in 15 male high school students report having experienced physical dating violence in the last year
• About 1 in 9 female and 1 in 36 male high school students report having experienced sexual dating violence in the last year

Unhealthy or violent relationships can have severe short and long-term effects on a developing teen. For example, youth who are victims of TDV are more likely to:

• Experience symptoms of depression and anxiety
• Engage in unhealthy behaviors, like using tobacco, drugs, and alcohol
• Think about suicide

Supporting the development of healthy, respectful, and nonviolent relationships can help reduce the occurrence of TDV and prevent its harmful effects. During the pre-teen and teen years, it is important for youth to begin learning the skills needed to create and maintain healthy relationships. These skills include things like how to manage feelings and how to communicate in a healthy way.

CDC developed Dating Matters®: Strategies to Promote Healthy Teen Relationships to stop teen dating violence before it starts. It focuses on teaching 11-14-year-olds healthy relationships skills and includes sections for kids, parents, schools, and neighborhoods. Visit the Dating Matters website to learn more!