Special Feature: Teen Dating Violence

Most teenagers do not experience physical aggression when they date. However, for some teens, abuse is a very real part of dating relationships (Teen Dating Violence: A Closer Look at Adolescent Romantic Relationships, National Institute of Justice, 2008).

Studies investigating the effectiveness of programs to prevent dating violence are beginning to show positive results. Most programs focus on changing knowledge, attitudes and behaviors linked with dating violence while focusing on the skills needed to build healthy relationships. In one rigorous National Institute of Justice-funded study, for example, school-level interventions reduced dating violence by up to 50 percent in 30 New York City public middle schools (Prevention and Intervention of Teen Dating Violence, National Institute of Justice, retrieved January 2014).

From 2004 through 2009, Congress designated the first full week in February as National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Week. Beginning in 2010, the Justice Department worked with the Senate to designate the entire month of February as National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month.

To help bring greater awareness to the dangers and consequences of teen dating violence, NCJRS presents this online compilation of resources on this topic. Please select a page from the below listing or from the box at the right under the 'Teen Dating Violence' heading to learn more about this topic:

• Publications
• Related Resources