Fairchild seeks end to teen dating violence Published Feb. 5, 2014 By Airman 1st Class Sam Fogleman 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Team Fairchild recognizes February as National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, and Fairchild has programs available to assist with spreading the word about the social illness of dating violence. February was proclaimed National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month by President Barack Obama Jan. 31. "Teens naturally develop into breaking away from the adult figures in their life, and begin to learn about their peers, who they can trust, what types of people they like and don't like," said Ruth Sunde, 92nd Medical Operations Squadron family advocacy outreach manager. "They also are learning about relationships with those people, and may not understand what is healthy and what isn't. The long term effects of violence in adolescent relationships can include a higher likelihood of substance abuse, eating disorders and future violent relationships." This month, there will be information booths located at the Teen Center, the 92nd Medical Group lobby and other venues. "Nearly 1.5 million high school students nationwide experience physical abuse from a dating partner in one single year," said Janet Bunn, 92nd MDOS domestic abuse victim advocate. "It is also reported that only 33 percent of those teens who experience abuse tell anyone. However, if they're going to tell someone, it will most likely be their peers or friends. So, it's important that all teens and their parents become aware of the danger and warning signs." Sunde said the family advocacy office hopes to do a special bowling night at the FunSpot later this month where there will be more information. "For parents, it's important to know the warning signs and to have that talk with your child," said Sunde. "We often joke about having the 'birds and the bees' conversation, but you should also have that talk about respect and what that looks like in relationships." For more information or resources, call Sunde or Bunn at the 92nd MDOS at 509-247-2687.