Relationships are important. We want them to be healthy and positive, but not all of them are. This can be tricky to navigate for teens when dating is a new experience. Sometimes relationships can become harmful or abusive. They can even impact teens’ mental and physical health.  

Raising Awareness & Promoting Healthy Relationships 

Unfortunately, 1 in 3 teens experience dating violence. Knowing the signs of dating violence and how to get help is important.  February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, so here are 5 things teens should know about relationships:   

1. Dating violence isn’t just physical violence. 
   When we say, “dating violence,” this really is a pattern of abusive behaviors that one partner uses to control the other. These behaviors can also include emotional, verbal, sexual, and digital abuse. For example, constant texting, pressure, insults, or threats are also signs of an abusive relationship.  
2. Control and jealousy aren’t signs of love.
   Constantly checking a partner’s phone, tracking their location, or getting mad at them when they spend time with friends aren’t signs of love. Relationships should be based on respect, trust, and boundaries. They should never include fear or pressure.  
3. Abuse can happen online.
   Abuse can happen digitally. Sending threats over text, controlling who someone can connect with online, or forcing them to share passwords are all examples of technology abuse. Visit the Safety Net Project for more information on tech abuse or get more information on how to start conversations about technology abuse. 
4. Healthy relationships don’t rush you.
   In a healthy relationship, a partner respects the other person’s boundaries. You shouldn’t be forced to move too fast emotionally, physically, or sexually. A partner who makes you feel guilty for saying no is not a loving one.  
5. Help is available, and you’re not alone.
   If something feels wrong, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Trusted friends, family members, or school counselors can be good resources. There are also resources available online and on the phone. Contact the National Teen Dating Violence Hotline 24/7 at 1 (866) 331-9474 or text “LoveIs” to 22522. 

Connect with local resources:  

• Call the Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline 24/7 for confidential support and referrals to resources: 1 (866) 723-3014 

• Lutheran Settlement House provides free counseling for survivors and child witnesses of domestic violence, and hosts programing for teens through Students Talking About Relationships (STAR): 215-426-8610, ext. 1245 

• Congreso de Latinos Unidos offers free counseling for survivors as well as teens and children impacted by domestic violence: 215-763-8870 x 1353. 

Connect with events this Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (#TDVAM2026) 

• Attend a free webinar on Teen Dating Violence 101 from Women In Transition on February 11, 2026, from 12-1pm 

• Register for the 9th Annual Condom Fashion Show from Prevention Meets Fashion on February 21, 2026, from 12-4pm  

• Get an Introduction to Teen Dating Violence from the Behavioral Health Training & Education Network on February 26, 2026, from 10am-12:30pm