Hinson Co-Leads Bipartisan Resolution to Designate February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Ashley Hinson, Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA), and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced a resolution to officially designate February as “Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month.” Millions of teenage Americans suffer from dating violence each year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 1 in 11 high school females and 1 in 15 high school males report having experienced physical dating violence, and 1 in 9 high school females and 1 in 36 high school males report having experienced sexual dating violence.

"An increasing number of teenagers in relationships are subject to emotional or physical abuse by their partners,” said Rep. Ashley Hinson. “I am proud to join Representatives Wexton and Fitzpatrick in this important resolution to raise awareness about teen dating violence to help curb this disturbing trend and promote healthy relationships for adolescents.”

"Teen dating violence can take on many forms, both seen and unseen, and affect any teenager," said Rep. Jennifer Wexton. "Whether the violence is physical, sexual, psychological, or cyber, the scars of an abusive relationship can severely impact a teenager’s development and follow them for their entire life. To help our teens who are suffering from this abuse, we need to raise awareness of this issue, break the stigma, and promote the importance of safe, healthy relationships."

"A 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey showed that approximately 44% of teens reported being a victim of violence at the hands of their partner. Now, with the advent of social media, there are even more tools and avenues that are used to pursue and harass innocent victims," said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick. “This is a significant issue that impacts everyone—teens, parents, teachers, friends, and our communities, as well. This bipartisan resolution is a step to empower victims and educate the public. Together, we can raise awareness about teen dating violence and promote safe, healthy relationships."

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