Helping teens navigate complicated world of dating

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, and it’s a crucial time to raise awareness about the importance of healthy relationships for young people. As teens navigate the often-complicated world of dating, it’s essential that they have the skills and knowledge to identify and avoid unhealthy relationships. Parents are wellpositioned to make a difference in their child’s life. However, in a national online survey of parents with children 11-18 years old, nearly half (45 percent) had not discussed dating violence with their children in the past year.

Healthy relationship behaviors are not innate, they are learned behaviors. Just as with other life skills, teens need education about how to express their feelings and needs in a clear and respectful manner, and to also listen actively and empathically to their partner. One crucial aspect of healthy relationships is learning how to effectively communicate and set boundaries. It is important for teens to understand that saying “no” to unwanted advances or behaviors is a fundamental aspect of consent and self-care.

Another important aspect of healthy relationships is learning how to manage conflicts and disagreements in a constructive way. This can include learning how to compromise, problem-solve, and take accountability for one’s actions.

Breakups are an inevitable part of dating, and it can be hard for teens to navigate the emotions that come with it. It’s crucial to teach teens how to end a relationship in a respectful and healthy way. This includes being honest and clear about their feelings, avoiding blame, and ensuring that both parties feel heard and respected during the process.

Teen dating violence is a serious issue that affects thousands of young people every year. By raising awareness about the importance of healthy relationships, we can empower teens to make better choices and build safer, more fulfilling relationships. It’s essential that we invest in the education, training, and resources necessary to help teens develop the skills they need to build healthy relationships now and in the future.

The Domestic Violence Crisis Center provides youth prevention education programs in schools throughout the seven communities we serve. We also provide free and confidential youth counseling for teens experiencing relationship abuse or those who have been exposed to domestic violence in the home. This awareness month is a great opportunity to take advantage of our community outreach and education resources around teen dating violence. Check out the #TDVAM book displays in local libraries, look for our “Love is …” treat bags at several youth community centers and find our resource guides on the DVCC website (dvccct.org).

It is important to remember that this is a matter of public health and safety, and it is everyone’s responsibility to create a culture of respect and kindness. By working together, we can ensure that all teens have the tools they need to build safe, healthy, and fulfilling relationships.

Nikkia Ellis is a prevention educator for the Domestic Violence Crisis Center. DVCC’s mission is to provide effective services, support and education for the prevention and elimination of domestic violence across the Connecticut communities of Stamford, Norwalk, Darien, New Canaan, Weston, Westport, Wilton and beyond. All victim services are free and confidential, and all services offered are multicultural/multilingual. If you or someone you know needs help, call the 24-hour hotline at 203-588-9097 or visit dvccct.org. For more information about the prevention education program, call 203-588-9100.