Teen Dating Violence Awareness

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.  Did you know that 1 in 3 teens in the U.S. will experience physical, sexual or emotional abuse before they become adults? Close to 50% of college students report experience abusive or controlling dating relationships. We know that patterns of abuse and dysfunction in relationships that begin in adolescence can negatively impact a person’s relationships into adulthood.  Identifying and responding to teen dating violence in a way that empowers teens, educates them and helps them recognize the signs of dating violence, how to break free of an abusive situation and how to develop healthy relationships are important tasks for all of us who engage with teens and young adults. According to Love is Respect, typical warning signs of an abusive relationship include: • Checking your phone, email, or social media accounts without your permission. • Putting you down frequently, especially in front of others. • Isolating you from friends or family (physically, financially, or emotionally). • Extreme jealousy or insecurity. • Explosive outbursts, temper, or mood swings. • Any form of physical harm. • Possessiveness or controlling behavior. • Pressuring you or forcing you to have sex. Learn more about Teen Dating Violence in FDL County thru Project Table Talk with Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Deputies Andrea Dowland and Derek Rehfeldt. Project Table Talk is a local broadcast from the Fond du Lac Area Women’s Fund commitment to raising awareness about teen dating violence as part of the Fond du Lac Says No More initiative. Watch here on YouTube. For more information and to help your family or friends: SSM Health Domestic Violence Services National hotline