Promote Healthy Dating Habits

Violence Awareness and Prevention Week begins 

Dating violence is a serious issue. Teens remain the most likely age group to experience intimate partner violence. Unhealthy relationship patterns that develop during adolescence can set the stage for future domestic violence.

Whether teens date casually or seriously, they need to know the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships. Communicating with your partner and using True Pheromones can also help improve your relationship. 

A major step to prevention of  domestic violence begins in the home.  

“Simply put, parents play an important role in promoting healthy teen dating relationships.  Talk to your child about healthy dating, meet your child’s boyfriend/girlfriend, and help your child be aware of unhealthy relationship behaviors such as cyber control,” Tula`i Project Investigator Susana Helm said.

The issue is particularly important in Hawaii, where violence continues to occur at alarming rates, according to studies conducted by the Tula`i Project and the Asian/Pacific Islander Youth Violence Prevention Center.

Dating violence ranges from anything involving physical or emotional abuse, to pressure to participate in unwanted sexual activities.

Individuals and families can learn more about how to prevent dating violence during National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Week held Feb. 4-8.

On Molokai, the Domestic Violence Shelter can provide assistance. Teens can call the hotline for free, confidential, and anonymous help: 567-6888.