Approximately 1 in 3 U.S. teens will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse in a relationship before they become adults. Teens who are victims of such abuse are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors, such as using drugs and/or drinking alcohol, and experience symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Teaching youth how to develop healthy relationships and promote healthy relationship skills can help break the cycle of violence. Let’s work together to empower youth to build safe and respectful connections!

Ways to Get Involved:

• Learn more about how to support youth through our resources related to healthy relationships and dating violence.
• Explore the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Dating Matters® Toolkit to learn strategies for promoting healthy relationship skills and preventing teen dating violence.
• Explore the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention’s literature review on teen dating violence.
• Encourage youth to reach out for help when they need it:
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), text “START” to 88788, or live chat online.
  • Love is Respect: Call 866-331-9474, text “LOVEIS” to 22522, or live chat online.