EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. This year’s theme is "Love Like That."
The theme is meant to uplift positive, healthy relationships by defining what "that" looks like, which is different for each person, community and individual relationship.
Teen dating violence is a form of intimate partner violence that affects millions of teens in the U.S. each year. It occurs between two people in a close relationship and includes: physical violence, sexual violence, psychological abuse, and stalking that may occur either online or offline.
“Our goal is to continue to educate on prevention while emphasizing safe dating techniques, dating red flags, healthy relationships, and communication skills, said Candice Chaput, an Integrated Prevention and Resiliency Office prevention specialist.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, teen dating violence affects millions of teens in the U.S. each year.
- Nearly one in 11 female teens and nearly one in 14 male teens reported experiencing physical dating violence in the last year. Approximately 26 percent of women and 15% of men experienced intimate partner violence for the first time before age 18.
- About one in eight females and one in 26 male high school students reported experiencing sexual dating violence in the last year.
“Our hope is that through mentorship and exposure, Eglin’s teens will gain experience and understanding on how to tackle difficult issues when it comes to dating,” said Chaput.
Along with IPRO, The Family Advocacy Program and the Military and Family Readiness Center representatives will partner with the Youth Center every Wednesday in February at 2:45 p.m. to discuss healthy relationships, internet and dating safety, and help teens understand local resources. For more information, call 882-8212 or (757) 630-5802.