The National Sexual Violence Resource Center, founded by the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape, reports that more than 28 percent of girls under age 18 were raped by a current or former intimate partner. Helping to combat the misfortune, the CCC Interpersonal Violence Program joins the nation in recognizing February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM).
Allowing orange to serve as its national color, the movement's theme for 2022 is 'Talk About It.' This particular theme encourages intentional conversations to establish indicators of a healthy relationship, along with discussions identifying steps to take in abusive situations.
Coordinator of Coahoma's Interpersonal Violence Program Kenneth Gooden says, "I cannot stress enough the importance of dating violence awareness and prevention; it's something that is not to be played down."
Gooden also points to research findings showing that girls/women from 16 to 24 years old are three times more likely to be abused by an intimate partner.
IVP aims to have students not only be able to rely on professional resources on campus, including counselors and Campus Safety staff.
"Our rebranded Interpersonal Violence Program hopes to empower bystanders to gather the courage to intervene on behalf of a troubled peer. Not only that, but the program continues to produce messaging that supports a breakdown in gender norms," said Gooden.
The prevention program acknowledges that every individual plays a part by spreading awareness and being mindful of signs indicating partner violence.
A healthy relationship is marked by trust and a mutual respect. Abusive behaviors can include constant belittling, physical harm, and going through a partner's cell phone without permission.
Kenneth Gooden can be contacted at extension 4666, (662)645-1907, or kgooden@coahomacc.edu.