Preventing Teen Dating Violence

February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention month and a local organization is kicking off a new campaign.  Start Strong stopped by Good Day to talk about the program.

Teen dating violence is a serious problem. According to a news release, one out of every 10 students has been hit, slapped or physically hurt on purpose by their boyfriend or girlfriend.

Teen dating violence increases the risk for physical, emotion and mental health problems including drugs and alcohol abuse, unplanned pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, depression/anxiety and dropping out of school.

Everyone in the community has a stake in preventing dating and sexual violence. Parents, teachers, coaches, peers and other important people in young people's lives can teach, model and support healthy relationships for youth.

Start Strong says teens want to be part of the solution and they are being empowered with the knowledge and skills to lead efforts to prevent dating violence in their communities.