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The following article is part one of a four-week series focusing on raising awareness about dating violence. February is Dating Violence Awareness month, and we hope to educate our community on this very important issue. One in three young people will experience dating violence in their lifetime. Locally, the Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center has been serving victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual assault and child abuse since 1978. Last year, HCWC served 2,257 victims of abuse (face-toface) primarily from Hays and Caldwell Counties.
Shows and movies often depict relationships that are far from healthy, romanticizing controlling behavior or portraying jealousy as a sign of love. These portrayals can send harmful messages about what relationships should look like, which is why it’s crucial to watch media with youth and engage in open conversations. These discussions play a vital role in preventing dating violence.
