Adam J. Sagot, D.O., FAPA
Chief Medical Officer
Preferred Behavioral Health Group

February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. To avoid treating this month as simply a symbolic observance, we must use it as a reminder that relationship violence often begins early, frequently goes unrecognized, and carries lasting mental health consequences. 

Data highlighted by the American Academy of Pediatrics show that approximately one in three adolescents in the United States experiences physical, emotional, or sexual abuse in a dating relationship. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry further emphasizes what we see each day in our work, that teen dating violence is associated with depression, anxiety, substance use, academic decline, and increased risk of future victimization. These are not isolated behavioral issues, but they are developmental and public health concerns. 

If we are serious about prevention, we must adopt a trauma-informed approach. That begins with a mindset shift. Instead of asking what is wrong with a teen, we ask what may have happened to them. Irritability, secrecy, declining grades, social withdrawal, or risk-taking behaviors may represent coping responses to coercion, fear, or shame.  At PBHG, we approach every case with a trauma-informed lens.   

A trauma-informed response prioritizes safety, trust, and empowerment.  Current data recommends creating private, nonjudgmental space for adolescents to talk. Teens are unlikely to share about abuse if they anticipate punishment, disbelief, judgment or loss of autonomy. Simple statements such as, “I am glad you told me,” or “You do not deserve that,” reduce isolation, provide validation of emotional experience and reinforce dignity. Listening without immediately taking over the situation helps restore a sense of control that abuse often strips away. 

Education is equally critical. We encourage direct conversations about consent, boundaries, respect, and digital behavior. Many teens normalize jealousy, constant texting to monitor whereabouts, password sharing, or pressure for sexual activity. These behaviors are often mislabeled as signs of closeness. They are not. They are warning signs. 

The National Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health America both stress that emotional abuse is real abuse. Humiliation, threats of self-harm used as manipulation, isolation from friends, and persistent monitoring can be profoundly destabilizing. As adults, we must learn to recognize subtle shifts in mood, unexplained injuries, sudden loss of friendships, or a partner who insists on constant contact. 

For parents, educators, and community members, prevention begins with modeling healthy relationships. Teens cannot do this alone; they need guidance and for their “village” to step-up and show-up.  Demonstrate conflict resolution without intimidation. Ask open ended questions, such as, “How do you handle disagreements?” Make sure teens know where to seek help, whether through school counselors, pediatricians, or crisis resources. 

Connection is the strongest protective factor. Surveillance and control are not substitutes for trust. When adolescents feel respected, heard, and supported, they are more likely to identify unhealthy dynamics and seek help early.  Remember, the strongest predictor of happiness later in life is the quality of relationships in their life.  We must protect our teens and educate them on the risks of unhealthy or unsafe relationships.   

Teen dating violence is preventable. Awareness is the first step. Informed, trauma sensitive engagement must follow.