February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness (TDVAM) Month. This year, SARCC has some new resources to share with our communities, including Project SELFIE. This program can be adapted for teens or adults who care about them. The topics covered included digital abuse and sexting. Digital abuse isn’t always obvious—and that’s what makes it tricky.
Digital abuse is when someone uses technology (like phones, social media, gaming platforms, or messaging apps) to control, threaten, embarrass, or hurt another person. It can happen in friendships, dating relationships, or even group chats—and it’s never your fault.
What Does Digital Abuse Look Like?
Digital abuse can include:
- Someone demanding your passwords or checking your phone without permission
- Getting pressured to send photos or messages you’re uncomfortable with
- Being threatened with sharing screenshots or private images
- Constant texting and getting angry if you don’t respond right away
- Being harassed, mocked, or excluded online
- Someone tracking your location without your consent
If something makes you feel anxious, trapped, or scared—even if you can’t explain why—it matters.
Why It Can Feel Hard to Speak Up
Remember, digital abuse is not your fault. Speaking up can still be hard. Sometimes, even just saying the hard thing out loud can make it seem more real. A lot of teens stay quiet because:
- They don’t want to lose friends or a relationship
- They’re afraid of getting in trouble or losing phone access
- They think it’s “not serious enough”
- They’ve been told it’s “just online”
But online harm is real harm. Your feelings are valid. Many teens tell us that talking about actually helps take the power away from the scary thing. Find an adult who is willing to listen and help find solutions.
What You Can Do
- Trust your gut—if it feels wrong, it probably is
- Save evidence (screenshots, messages)
- Block or mute when possible
- Talk to a trusted adult, counselor, or friend. SARCC provides a 24-hour support line, and schools have Safe2Say lines.
- Remember: asking for help is a strength, not a weakness
You deserve respect—online and offline. Teens can call the 24-hour support lines at SARCC to talk with a trained sexual assault counselor. You can reach us at 570-628-2965 or 717-272-5308. Schools all have Safe2Say lines where you can connect with help or request support. Parents and other caring adults who want to learn more can contact our Prevention Specialists to request Project SELFIE programs, Social Development Strategy trainings, or Mandated Reporter trainings at no cost.
