Teen Dating Violence Prevention 

Teen dating violence (TDV) is a pattern of controlling or abusive behaviors perpetrated by a current or former dating partner, and the YWCA helps teens and young adults understand the behaviors associated with TDV and create a plan to ensure their safety in a relationship. Dating violence and sexual assault disproportionately affect teens and young adults, with abusers from any gender.

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Our YWCA Prevention team visits middle and high schools in the community and educates teens and young adults about relationships through a curriculum called Healthy Love.  Here, teens and young adults can learn the red flags and green flags in relationships and get connected to resources if they are experiencing dating violence.

Additional Resources 

• The REACH Center 253-383-3951

• Community Youth Services 360-943-0780

• Rosie's Place Engagement Center & Youth Adult Shelter 360-918-7879

• Harbor Hope Center 844-841-1954

• Oasis Youth Center 253-671-2838

• The Coffee Oasis 253-328-6127 (religiously affiliated)

Teen Dating Violence Prevention FAQ

• What does the Healthy Love curriculum teach? The Healthy Love curriculum materials we currently use focus on prevention education, including recognizing warning signs of unhealthy relationships, understanding power and control dynamics, and identifying healthy relationship behaviors. 

• What age group is the target audience for Healthy Love? Middle and high school students.

• Is the Teen Dating Violence Prevention program considered counseling or clinical services? No. Education and Prevention presentations of the Healthy Love curriculum are educational in nature and do not represent counseling or clinical support. However, it does fall under categories of advocacy and crisis services.