Teen dating violence has become a critical problem in the U.S.; millions of teens are affected by dating violence each year. The Give Back Club at KHS has taken responsibility to bring light to this issue during Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. The club members believe that drawing awareness to this issue will encourage others to understand and recognize the dangers of an unhealthy relationship. 

The Give Back Club members decided to tape purple ribbons onto every third locker in the school to explain the statistics of violence in teen dating. “The ribbons were posted around the school on every third locker to represent how many teenagers experience some level of teen dating violence,” says Club Advisor Danielle Elia. 

KHS Senior and Give Back Club member Emma Schmidt adds, “The ribbons are a great way to promote this because they are a way to visually reinforce the topic.”

In addition to the ribbons, the club members also found various quotes to remind others what a positive relationship looks like. Some shared were, “Love yourself enough to set boundaries” and “A good relationship is when someone accepts your past, supports your present and encourages your future.” Expectedly, as students walk by in the halls, they can learn about healthy relationships versus unhealthy relationships.

In the U.S., 1 out 3 teens will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse in a relationship; hence it is essential to identify the signs of abuse and promote healthy relationships. Elia says, “Often people need reminders that they are not alone and can receive support if needed.”

Recognizing the signs of violence and abuse is the first step towards helping others. Elia shares the statistics, “82% of parents thought they could recognize teen dating violence but more than half couldn’t identify the warning signs.” 

Victims are afraid and even unaware of the abuse they face. Schmidt says, “It is often a very hidden form of abuse. It usually happens in private, making the victim entirely alone and others unaware of the situation.”  

The club is reaching out by helping and talking to anyone in need. Elia believes that some ways we can accomplish this are to “learn to identify the red flags for them [dating violence] and not just brush it off.” 

Spreading awareness to this issue will bring enlightenment and recognition to the problem. Schmidt agrees and says, “We need to make it a more open topic and make it more socially acceptable to talk about these kinds of topics!”