1 in 3 teens experience relationship abuse, say violence prevention advocates

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — City officials and violence prevention advocates came together at Columbia’s City Hall Tuesday morning to recognize “Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.”

Trevon Fordham leads the City of Columbia’s Office of Violent Crime Prevention.

“One in three teens in the United States will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from someone that they’re in a relationship with — prior to becoming an adult. Those are staggering statistics,” Fordham says.

According to violence prevention advocates, one in three teen relationships are also characterized as unhealthy or violent overall — creating lasting and damaging impacts into adulthood.

“Those damaging impacts are shown through behavioral health issues, including suicide attempts, eating disorders, and drug misuse,” says Fordham.

In an effort to provide resources to young adults and promote healthy relationships, the city will hold an event for teenagers called “Leap of Love” on February 15th from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Brookland Baptist Church.

Among many topics, teens will be educated on relationship red flags, signs of stalking, and characteristics of toxic partners. But most importantly they can learn what healthy relationships look like.

Teaira Mack is a volunteer with “Hush No More” — one of the many groups that will be available at “Leap of Love.”

Mack says “Hush No More” tackles topics that many find difficult to talk about — like child sexual abuse or incest.

“And so I think it’s very important for us to bring that to the forefront, and not only do it just because, but do it in love and kindness. A lot of people are scared to go because they don’t realize that they need that support. They don’t realize they have that support that’s available to them,” Mack says.

Leah Wicevic is the Executive Director for “Sistercare” — a group that advocates for domestic violence survivors of all ages.

“Abusers thrive in silence, so it’s important for us as a community to talk about it. We’re going to keep talking about it. You’re not alone. And parents, you need to talk about it too with kids. Even if you think they might not hear you or they’re not listening, it’s important to start these conversations and to have them often,” says Wicevic.

“Leap of Love” is free to all guests.