Dating Violence 101

When we think of domestic abuse we usually think 'this is something that happens to married people only', and couldn't be farther away from the truth. In reality, one in 3 teens has been a victim of dating violence and nearly 1.5 million high school students have experienced dating violence every year. So what is dating violence and how do we recognize the signs? Read on to find out.

Dating violence is a pattern of abusive behavior that one partner uses to exert power and control over another partner. Abusive behavior can include(but not limited to) physical violence, abusive language, emotional and psychological abuse, isolation, stalking, digital abuse and financial control. Here is a great info-graphic from Breakthecycle.org that briefly describes forms of abuse that occur in dating violence.

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs of dating violence, you are not alone. You can call us on our confidential hotline at 713-981-7645 from

Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.