Teen dating violence (TDV), sometimes called dating abuse or dating violence, refers to any pattern of behaviors used to gain or maintain power and control in a dating or romantic relationship between partners who are teenagers (between the ages of 12 and 20). TDV can happen in person or through technology and includes behaviors that harm, threaten, isolate, or control a partner. Many young people may not recognize these behaviors as unhealthy or abusive.
For newcomer youth, recognizing dating violence can be more complex. Cultural expectations, migration-related stress, having fewer trusted adults, and pressure to adapt quickly to U.S. norms can make it hard to identify what is typical, what is unhealthy, and what feels unsafe. Youth may also hold different understandings of jealousy, privacy, gender roles, or communication based on experiences in their home country, during migration, or in community settings.
This toolkit provides practical, ready-to-use tools for service providers, foster parents, and other adults supporting newcomer youth to start mindful conversations with teens, respond safely to disclosures, and support youth in building healthy relationships rooted in dignity and respect.
