Teen Dating Violence: Schools, Parents, and Peers Sound the Alarm

Teen dating violence is rising, and iCare’s Shavon Hamilton says parents and schools need to treat it as a real safety issue. Abuse among teens often happens online, at school, or through constant digital access—making coercion, intimidation, and control as damaging as physical violence. Statistics show one in three U.S. teens experience dating violence, and warning signs include sudden personality changes, irritability, declining grades, or withdrawal from family.Hamilton says parents should avoid criticizing, keep conversations open, and step in when safety is at risk. Local support includes iCare, the Baton Rouge Crisis Center, and the Sexual Trauma Awareness Center.