Classification
Teen dating violence involves abuse(physical, emotional, sexual, or psychological) between individuals in a romantic or dating relationship where at least one person is a teenager. In Arizona, teen dating violence is covered under the state's domestic violence laws (Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-3601), which apply when the victim and perpetrator have or had a romantic or sexual relationship. Factors like the nature, duration, and interaction level of the relationship are considered.
Legally, teen dating violence is treated as domestic violence and can result in arrest if there is probable cause that an offense has been committed. Officers can arrest one or both parties if both have committed violence independently. Self-defense actions are not considered domestic violence.
Victims can seek protective orders to restrict an abuser from contacting or approaching them, even if they are not married or living together (thanks to Arizona’s "Kaity’s Law"). These protective orders are accessible through online tools such as the Arizona Protective Order Initiative and Notification Tool (AZPOINT).
Schools in Arizona can also address teen dating violence through policies allowing them to intervene in dating abuse incidents, although this is optional for school districts.
Safety and Well-being: Teen dating violence harms victims physically and emotionally, potentially causing lasting trauma.
Legal Protections and Enforcement: Understanding the law helps victims access protection and ensures perpetrators are held accountable.
Community and School Impact: Awareness and prevention support safer relationships and learning environments.
Rights of Teens: Dating does not forfeit an individual’s right to safety, respect, and protection from abuse.
Why It Matters
Safety and Well-being: Teen dating violence harms victims physically and emotionally, potentially causing lasting trauma.
Legal Protections and Enforcement: Understanding the law helps victims access protection and ensures perpetrators are held accountable.
Community and School Impact: Awareness and prevention support safer relationships and learning environments.
Rights of Teens: Dating does not forfeit an individual’s right to safety, respect, and protection from abuse.
Why It Matters
What You Can Do
Recognize Abuse: Learn to identify signs of abuse—such as controlling behavior, threats, physical harm, or emotional manipulation—in relationships.
Seek Help: Contact trusted adults, school counselors, or law enforcement if you or someone you know is experiencing abuse. In emergencies, dial 911.
Use Resources: Victims can obtain protective orders to legally restrict an abuser’s contact. Hotlines and organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233) and Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence (800-782-6400) provide support.
Educate Peers: Help raise awareness about healthy relationships and the unacceptability of abuse.
Advocate for Change: Support school programs and community efforts designed to prevent teen dating violence and promote respect.
Know Your Rights: Understand that abuse is not your fault, you have legal protections, and resources exist to assist you.