Teen dating violence is a serious issue affecting 10% of teens yearly.1 Unfortunately, signs of abuse can be hard to spot, making it difficult for parents to recognize when their teen may be in an unhealthy or dangerous relationship. Fortunately, there are some warning signs that parents should be aware of so that they can intervene if necessary.
Warning Signs of Abuse
The first step in recognizing the signs of teen dating violence is understanding the different types of abuse and what each looks like. Physical violence is any type of physical contact with the intent to harm or control another person. Examples include slapping, hitting, kicking, and pushing.3 Emotional abuse involves any behavior meant to manipulate someone’s feelings or make them feel inadequate or worthless. This includes verbal attacks such as name-calling, threats, guilt-tripping, and humiliation3 Sexual abuse involves pressuring someone into sexual activity they do not want or making them feel ashamed about their sexuality. Finally, digital abuse involves using technology such as phones, computers, and social media to bully someone or control them through fear tactics such as monitoring their online activity or threatening to post embarrassing photos online.
Ways To Help
If you think your child may be experiencing one or more of these types of teen dating violence, it is important for you to intervene in order to help protect your child from further harm. Talk openly with your child about what he/she is going through and let them know that it isn’t their fault and that you will support them no matter what they decide to do. Encourage your child to create a safety plan if a partner is abusing them—this could involve finding safe places away from home where they can go in case they need to leave quickly—and connect him/her with local resources like counseling services if needed. There is a National Dating Abuse Helpline, which is a 24-hour resource specifically designed for teens and young adults, offering one-on-one support for those involved in dating abuse or who know someone who is.2 It is also important for you as a parent to educate yourself on teen dating violence so that you can offer more informed advice and support. Visit https://www.teendvmonth.org/ to learn more about teen dating violence and other ways to help support your child.3
No parent wants their teenage child involved in an abusive relationship but unfortunately, it happens all too often. Recognizing the signs of teen dating violence is the first step toward helping your child out of a potentially dangerous situation. By talking openly with your child about his/her experiences, intervening when necessary, and providing resources for them if needed – you can help protect your child now – and for years into the future!
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, February 28). Fast facts: Preventing teen dating violence |violence prevention|injury Center|CDC. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved January 19, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/teendatingviolence/fastfact.html#:~:text=Teen%20dating%20violence%20is%20common.&text=About%201%20in%2012%20experienced,12%20experienced%20sexual%20dating%20violence.
- Resources for victims of teen dating violence. Resources for Victims of Teen Dating Violence | Youth.gov. (n.d.). Retrieved January 19, 2023, from https://youth.gov/youth-topics/teen-dating-violence/resources
Teen dating violence awareness and prevention: Info on teen dating violence. Teen Dating Violence Awareness. (n.d.). Retrieved January 19, 2023, from https://www.teendvmonth.org/
