At PREVAIL, we are dedicated to shattering the false narratives surrounding relationship dynamics, empowering the next generation, and fostering a culture where respect is the baseline, not the exception.
As we observe Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM) this February, we are shifting the focus from the traditional pressures of Valentine’s Day to a more vital conversation: Love is Respect. Using our 50-year legacy of advocacy as a foundation, we are providing teens, parents, and educators with the tools to identify the subtle signs of abuse and the language to build healthy, life-affirming connections.
Setting the Record Straight on Teen Dating Violence
Awareness begins with understanding the complexity of how abuse manifests in young lives. It is rarely as simple as a physical altercation; it is often a pattern of behaviors designed to gain power and control.
- Non-physical abuse is real: Constant criticism, gaslighting, and emotional manipulation are forms of abuse. They damage a young person’s self-esteem and are frequently the warning signs of escalating violence.
- Technology is a new frontier for control: In a digital world, abuse doesn't end when the school day does. Demanding passwords, monitoring social media activity, or using location tracking to "check up" on a partner is not a sign of devotion—it is a violation of digital boundaries.
- Abuse does not discriminate: Teen dating violence impacts every demographic, including LGBTQ+ youth and young men. At PREVAIL, we recognize that no two stories are the same, and every survivor deserves a voice that is heard and believed.
Education in Action: Red Flags vs. Green Flags
Empowerment starts with education. We encourage our community to move beyond "don't" and focus on "do"—recognizing the "Green Flags" that signal a healthy, respectful partnership.
- Green Flag: Independence. A healthy partner encourages you to maintain your own friendships, hobbies, and identity. Red Flag: Isolation. Trying to keep you away from friends or family under the guise of "wanting you all to themselves."
- Green Flag: Consent. "No" is respected the first time, every time, without guilt or negotiation. Red Flag: Pressure. Being coerced into physical or emotional intimacy before you are ready.
- Green Flag: Trust. You feel safe being yourself without having to "prove" your loyalty. Red Flag: Digital Monitoring. Feeling forced to share passwords or respond to texts instantly to avoid a conflict.
Deepening the Conversation: Community Education
To help bring these complex themes to life, PREVAIL offers specialized presentations and facilitated discussions tailored for both youth and adults. We utilize educational tools to help audiences spot non-physical signs of abuse—such as emotional manipulation and digital control—that are often overlooked.
Our team is available to visit schools, colleges, or community groups to lead these vital conversations. For more information on booking a presentation or discussion for your group, please reach out to us at
50 Years of Heartbeat and Hope
This February also marks a continued celebration of PREVAIL’s mission. While our youth and family services branch began in 1969, we are currently honoring 50 years of service to those impacted by domestic and inter-partner violence, a legacy rooted in the 1976 founding of the Women's Center of Stockton.
For five decades, we have evolved our prevention programs to meet the changing needs of our community. Our commitment remains: early education stops patterns before they become adult domestic violence. By teaching healthy boundaries today, we prevent the trauma of tomorrow.
How to Take Action This Month
- For Teens: Trust your gut. If something feels like "control" rather than "care," reach out. You deserve a relationship that feels safe.
- Join Our Food Drive: On February 21st, help us support our community. We have 85 boxes available for distribution—please arrive by 9:00 AM to assist.
- Support the Future: Join us as we look toward our 50 years celebration of serving victims of family and inter-partner violence at our upcoming Gala,
- Wear Orange Day: Join us in making a bold statement! On February 10, wear orange to raise awareness for Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month and show your support for healthy relationships.
A Message of Solidarity
At PREVAIL, we believe every young person deserves to be centered in their own story, with their autonomy and dignity fully intact. By debunking myths and spreading accurate information about what "love" truly looks like, we can turn vulnerability into strength.
Your voice matters—and help is always available.
📞 24/7 Helpline: (209) 465-4878
📞 Youth Crisis Line: (209) 948-1911
🌐 WeShallPREVAIL.org