From Harris County Sheriff Ron Hickman
Valentine’s Day is coming up and it is also Black History Month. But from a public awareness standpoint, there is a serious topic I would like to discuss.
February is also Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.
Here are some alarming facts about teen dating violence.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), a national survey revealed that one in 10 teens reported being hit or physically hurt on purpose by a boyfriend or girlfriend at least once. One in 10 teens also reported being to being kissed, touched or forced into a sexual encounter at least once by someone they were dating.
To promote awareness and healthy relationships, the CDC has come out with useful resources that I encourage all parents to review with their teens.
You can find it at http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/datingmatters/
You can also learn more about teen dating violence at http://www.BreaktheCycle.org.
Please talk to your teens about dating violence today. Open that line of communication and let your child know you are there to support them.
