SouthCoast Program Teaching Teens About Healthy Relationships

Helping Teens Recognize Healthy Relationships

This week’s Southcoast Health Community Spotlight shines on the Katie Brown Educational Program, an organization working to prevent teen dating violence through education and awareness in schools across the SouthCoast

Claire McVicker from the Katie Brown Educational Program recently visited Fairhaven High School, where the organization has been delivering its prevention curriculum for several years.

Reaching Students Before It Is Too Late

The program focuses on helping students recognize warning signs of unhealthy relationships before situations escalate. Educators visit classrooms in small groups and spend several days working directly with students.

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The curriculum begins as early as fourth grade and continues through high school, giving students age appropriate tools to understand healthy communication, boundaries, and relationship safety.

Unfortunately, McVicker says teen dating violence is far more common than many people realize.

The Story Behind The Program

The organization was founded in memory of Katie Brown, a young woman from Barrington, Rhode Island who was killed by her boyfriend after attempting to end an abusive relationship.

McVicker explained that many of Katie’s friends and family recognized signs that the relationship was unhealthy, but at the time lacked the resources to know how to help.

“People are really protective of dating relationships,” McVicker said. “Those are not often things that we are comfortable talking about or hearing negative feedback about.”

Today, the program works to ensure students are better prepared to identify dangerous situations and support friends who may be struggling.

Warning Signs Friends Should Notice

One of the biggest warning signs, according to McVicker, is isolation.

“If your friend is suddenly pulling away, not answering texts, or you are not seeing them as often, that can be a really big warning sign,” said McVicker.

The Katie Brown Educational Program encourages teens to remain supportive and stay connected, even when difficult conversations are necessary.

Bringing The Program To More Schools

Schools interested in bringing the prevention program to students can learn more by visiting kbep.org.