TDV: Understanding the Impact and Resources

Teen dating violence is a critical issue that affects millions of young people across the country. February is recognized as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM), a time dedicated to raising awareness and promoting prevention efforts to stop abusive relationships before they start.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 12 high school students in the U.S. experience physical dating violence, and 1 in 12 report sexual dating violence. The issue is just as prevalent in Louisiana, where a 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey found that 9.1% of high school students reported being physically hurt by someone they were dating.
Teen dating violence is not limited to physical harm. It includes emotional abuse, sexual violence, digital harassment, and stalking. These experiences can have long-term effects on a teenager’s mental and emotional health, leading to depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts.
Louisiana has taken legal measures to address teen dating violence and protect young victims. In 2010, Louisiana passed Act 321, which requires public schools to provide age-appropriate education on dating violence, including warning signs and available resources.
Under Louisiana law, domestic abuse protective orders can be issued to minors experiencing dating violence. Additionally, the state defines dating violence as a pattern of abusive behaviors used to exert power and control over a dating partner. This includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.
Louisiana Revised Statute 17:81 mandates school boards to develop policies for preventing and responding to teen dating violence. These policies must include training for school staff, procedures for reporting abuse, and resources for students in abusive relationships.
Teen dating violence can be difficult to identify, especially when victims are afraid to speak out. Some warning signs include:

• Extreme jealousy or insecurity
• Unexplained bruises or injuries
• Sudden changes in behavior or mood
• Isolation from friends and family
• Controlling behavior, such as monitoring phone use or social media activity
  Education is one of the most effective tools in preventing teen dating violence. Teaching teens about healthy relationships, consent, and the importance of mutual respect can help reduce abusive behaviors before they start.
  For those experiencing dating violence, help is available. Domestic Abuse Resistance Team (DART) is a vital resource in Louisiana that provides support to victims of domestic violence, including teens.

Jackie Hill, the Advocate for DART in Union Parish, is available to speak to schools, youth groups, and organizations about teen dating violence by providing crucial information on recognizing abuse, seeking help, and fostering healthy relationships. These outreach efforts aim to educate young people and empower them with the knowledge they need to protect themselves and others.
Schools, parents, and community organizations are encouraged to participate in Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month by hosting discussions, sharing educational materials, and inviting advocates to speak. Raising awareness can help break the cycle of abuse and ensure a safer future for Louisiana’s teens.
If you or someone you know is experiencing teen dating violence, contact DART’s local office at 368-6181 or the 24-hour crisis hotline at (318) 251-2255 for confidential support and assistance.