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loveisrespect National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline was launched February 8, 2007 by the National Domestic Violence Hotline and Break the Cycle. This 24-hour national Web-based and telephone resource was created to help teens and young adults experiencing dating abuse, and is the only helpline in the country serving all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. In addition to the telephone hotline there is a text feature, and a live chat option, which allows teens to connect to trained peer advocates via the web. loveisrespect peer advocates are trained to offer crisis intervention, advocacy, and information and referrals.
The Office on Violence Against Women of the United States Department of Justice supported the launch of the helpline. Acting Director Mary Beth Buchanan attended the launch of the helpline and was the first caller.
Cards with the number for the National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline are available to many schools and organizations at no charge from Jennifer Ann's Group.
Dating Bill of Rights
Featured on loveisrespect's website, www.loveisrespect.org, is the Teen Dating Bill of Rights, a set of affirmations and pledges for teens reflecting the importance of awareness of dating abuse and the need for young people to take a stand and nurture healthy relationships.
Teen Dating Bill of Rights
I have the right:
- To always be treated with respect.
- To be in a healthy relationship.
- To not be hurt physically or emotionally.
- To refuse sex or affection at anytime.
- To have friends and activities apart from my boyfriend or girlfriend.
- To end a relationship.
I pledge to:
- Always treat my boyfriend or girlfriend with respect.
- Never hurt my boyfriend or girlfriend physically, verbally, or emotionally.
- Respect my girlfriend's or boyfriend's decisions concerning sex and affection.
- Not be controlling or manipulative in my relationship.
- Accept responsibility for myself and my actions.