HONOLULU (HI Now) - As the school year winds down and summer break begins, many teens gain more independence—and with that, more unsupervised time. While this season can be filled with growth and fun, it can also increase the risk of dating violence and abuse among youth.
TAP808, a program of the Domestic Violence Action Center (DVAC), provides education, workshops, outreach, and advocacy to youth ages 12–21 across Hawaiʻi. The team also equips adults—parents, educators, and mentors—with tools to recognize and prevent abuse before it escalates.
“Young people are still learning how to navigate relationships,” says Addison. “Our goal is to help them build healthy, respectful connections while giving them the confidence to recognize when something doesn’t feel right.”
So what should you watch for? Some red flags of teen dating abuse include:
- Excessive texting or calling
- Jealousy or possessiveness
- Isolation from friends and family
- Verbal put-downs or public humiliation
- Controlling behavior—like telling a partner what to wear, where to go, or who to hang out with
These behaviors may seem subtle at first but can escalate quickly and lead to long-term harm if not addressed. That’s why education and early intervention are so critical.
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If you or someone you know needs help, reach out. All TAP808 services are free and confidential. Whether you’re a teen experiencing harm or an adult trying to support one, you’re not alone—and there are resources ready to help.
To learn more about TAP808′s workshops and resources or to get involved, visit www.tap808.org and follow @teenalertprogram on Instagram and Facebook.
Together, we can build a safer, more respectful future for our keiki.
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