HOUSTON — Dating violence among young partners is on the rise.
According to the Texas Council on Family Violence, 19 people under the age of 21 were killed in the context of a dating relationship in 2022.
In 2021, only one person under 21 was killed in a dating homicide.
TCFV's William West said family and cultural dynamics are major factors. He also pointed to a rise in young men following people on social media who model an aggressive version of masculinity.
He said it's important for families and schools to help teens learn how to cope with a breakup in a healthy manner, understand consent and set healthy personal boundaries.
He said family members also need to be on the lookout for red flags if their teen is dating.
"Extreme jealousy or possessiveness ... huge indicator for an unhealthy relationship," West said. "Constantly needing to be in communication with your partner, know where they are, know who they're with, constantly telling them to not be somewhere ... one partner is controlling."
The agency reported that 1 in 12 high school students experience physical dating violence and 1 in 4 teens who are dating experience virtual violence through social media or text messages.
'The talk'
Just like you have to have the "sex" talk and the "drug" talk with your children, experts said you should also discuss dating and signs to look out for.
It's not just to prevent teens from becoming victims, but also to teach them not to be perpetrators as domestic violence cases among younger people are increasing.
So, what are some of the red flags to look for?
Kaitlynn Fry is with Crime Stoppers Houston and works with high schools as part of a program that teaches teens about dating.
Specifically, teen domestic violence.
She said it's always important to ask about these things: "Do they feel secure? Are they allowed to be themselves? Are they free to say no and do they feel equal?"
She said having tough conversations with kids can help.
"You are not putting the spotlight on them. .... You are getting insight on how they feel. Getting their perspective," Fry said.
The bottom line, Fry said, is that it starts at home where parents should be teaching kids what healthy vs. unhealthy relationships look like.
It's just important to talk to them about how they handle rejection so they don't turn to violence.
"Respecting when someone tells you no," Fry said.
She said to be sure to be empathetic for your child because they could feel like their world is crumbling.
Another helpful tip is to make a list of things your child expects out of their relationship.
Crime Stoppers has a tip line to report abusive relationships. You can also request a teen dating violence presentation by clicking here.
Resources for victims of domestic or family violence
Domestic and family violence cases in the Houston area have increased at an alarming rate. Victims often suffer in silence because they feel scared, helpless or ashamed.
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, here are some discreet ways to reach out for help.
The Houston Area Women’s Center has a 24-hour hotline for victims of domestic violence at 713-528-2121 or 1-800-256-0551.
The Family Time Crisis Center can also be reached 24 hours a day at 281-446-2615.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
Crisis Text Line: Text START to 88788.