Lakeview School -

Teen dating violence is a significant but often underreported issue affecting adolescents across the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 in 12 high school students report experiencing physical dating violence, and about 1 in 12 report sexual dating violence within the past year, with even higher rates of emotional and psychological abuse. Girls and LGBTQ+ youth are disproportionately impacted. Awareness is critical because early experiences with unhealthy relationships can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, academic decline, and continued relationship violence in adulthood. Educating teens about consent, boundaries, and healthy communication empowers them to recognize warning signs, seek help, and build safer, more respectful relationships.