Teen Dating Violence

February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month (TDVAM). Around 1.5 million high school students in the U.S. are impacted by dating abuse and, it’s time we come together to address this issue.

How can we make our homes and communities safer? By learning to recognize the signs. Keep an eye out to identify potential red flags that you or your teenager may be displaying.

Your teen may be in an unhealthy relationship if they:

Becomes less communicative or seem to “hide” something.
Change behavior and appearance.
Isolate from family and friends.
Show explosive temper or unusual moodiness
Worry how their partner will react in a given situation.
Lose interest in favorite activities.
Start dropping grades at school.
Check in with their partner frequently and return messages right away.
Blame themselves for how their partner acts.
Minimize partner’s unacceptable behavior.
Display depression or anxiety.

If you have identified one or more red flags, it is important to have an open conversation with your teen. Be a supportive presence and actively listen to their concerns. Remind them that they are not alone in this journey, and their safety is of utmost importance. Encourage them to share their feelings with you or someone they trust.

Seeking guidance from professionals, counselors, and community advocates can also be beneficial. Remember, fostering open communication is key to addressing and overcoming challenges.

Is Your Relationship Toxic?

Discover if your relationship is on the right track by taking our interactive quiz.
Answer each question with “Yes,” “Sometimes,” or “No,” assigning the corresponding values for each response in the score section.
Total the values at the end to reveal your relationship health score.

What are the next steps if you suspect your teen is in an abusive relationship?

Don’t: Rush into action, as this can stop the conversation and backfire.

Do: Listen to them and be supportive; they might fear your overreaction, and they need your understanding, not your judgment.

Don’t: Show doubt about what your teen is telling you; this can make them hesitant to be open about their feelings and drive them closer to their abuser.

Do: Offer your unconditional support and let them know they are taken seriously.

Don’t: Ignore them; this can damage their self-esteem and make them lose confidence.

Do: Show concern and remind them they deserve to be treated with respect; this can boost their confidence.

Don’t: Be critical of the abusive partner or their relationship, nor talk badly about the person.

Do: Talk about the behaviors that concern you and show that a healthy relationship reflects differently. Remember that your teen’s feelings are involved.

Don’t: Give ultimatums; forcing your teen to break up can make them feel tempted to return to their partner due to “unresolved feelings.”

Do: Trust your teen and help them develop a safety plan; this can help them feel prepared and independent when they are ready to leave the relationship.

The Talk: Connecting with Your Teen

Navigating conversations with teens can be challenging during their journey to independence. Teens grapple with emotions that influence decisions, often leading to risky outcomes. Establishing open communication is crucial. Build trust, encourage dialogue, and stay vigilant for signs of distress.

Key Points:

Listen and Validate: Acknowledge your teen’s feelings, fostering trust and openness.
Warning Signs: Watch for mood swings, appetite changes, aggression, or isolation, indicating potential struggles.
Family Bonding: Spend quality time engaging in activities your teen enjoys. Shared experiences build trust.
Initiate Conversations: Approach discussions subtly, asking about friends or relationship insights, making them feel comfortable.

Creating a supportive environment strengthens your connection, making it easier for teens to confide in parents during challenging times.

Understanding Love: A Guide for Teens

Love goes beyond feelings—it’s rooted in respect, honesty, communication, and well-being. Sadly, many teens struggle to discern a healthy relationship. Emotions and situations can cloud their judgment, leading them to accept abuse as normal.

Key Points:

Holistic Love: True love encompasses respect, safety, and open communication.
Recognize Red Flags: Be vigilant for signs of unhealthy behavior in your relationship.
Don’t be Confused: Genuine love should never involve abuse. Trust your instincts and prioritize safety.

Empower yourself with a clear understanding of love—where respect and safety are non-negotiable. Don’t overlook red flags; prioritize your well-being in any relationship.

Navigating a Breakup

Are you contemplating ending your relationship but uncertain about how to proceed? While breakups can be challenging, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being throughout the process.

Consider creating a safety plan and sharing your situation with family and trusted individuals. If you’re unsure about crafting a plan, explore this interactive safety guide that can be personalized to your needs.

Seeking Help:

In an abusive relationship, time alone doesn’t heal wounds. If you or someone you know is facing violence, don’t hesitate to speak up. Abuse can affect anyone at any age. Local resources are here to assist and guide you through challenging situations. In case of immediate danger, dial 911 for urgent help.