Workshop Overview

This interactive workshop helps teens identify the difference between healthy, unhealthy, and abusive relationship behaviors. Through open discussion, role-play, and guided reflection, participants learn emotional regulation, respect, and communication skills to prevent dating violence and foster emotional safety.

Target Audience: Ages 13–18

Duration: 90 minutes

Facilitators: Licensed clinicians, youth mentors, or trained advocates

Learning Objectives

By the end of the workshop, participants will:

1. Recognize early warning signs of controlling or abusive behavior.
2. Understand how self-esteem and boundaries affect relationship health.
3. Learn safe ways to seek help for themselves or a friend.

1. Practice communication and conflict resolution skills.
2. Reflect on media and peer influences that normalize violence or control.

Session Outline

1. Opening Icebreaker (10 min)

• “What makes a relationship healthy?”
• Teens share short answers anonymously on sticky notes or index cards.

2. Understanding Teen Dating Violence (15 min)

• Define physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, and digital abuse.
• Discuss myths (e.g., “If they’re jealous, it means they love me”).
• Use real-world scenarios or short video clips.

3. Red Flags vs. Green Flags (15 min)

• Group activity: Sort cards or slides with examples of behaviors into “Healthy,” “Unhealthy,” or “Abusive.”
• Reflect: “Have you ever seen or experienced any of these?”

4. Boundaries and Consent (15 min)

• Define consent clearly — emphasize ongoing, voluntary, informed choice.
• Demonstrate boundary-setting phrases like “I’m not comfortable with that” or “Please stop.”

5. Role-Play Practice (20 min)

• Pairs or small groups practice scenarios (e.g., controlling texts, rumors, pressure).
• Discuss healthy responses and supportive bystander behaviors.

6. Help & Resources (10 min)

• Share confidential support lines and local counseling options.
• Introduce how to help a friend safely without escalating danger.

7. Reflection & Closing (5 min)

• Participants write one takeaway: “What does a healthy relationship mean to me?”
• End with empowerment message: “You deserve safety, respect, and love without fear.”

Optional Add-ons

• Mind-Ra Connection: Teach how self-care and self-worth are part of healthy love.
• Zeroground Collaboration: Offer “confidence care kits” (hygiene + mental wellness) for youth leaving abusive or unhealthy relationships.
• Parent/Guardian Session: Provide a parallel workshop on recognizing signs and supporting teens.

Resources to Include

• National Dating Abuse Helpline: 1-866-331-9474 or text LOVEIS to 22522
• LoveIsRespect.org
• The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ+ teens): 1-866-488-7386
• Local shelters or youth counseling centers