Get Informed about Dating Violence
Understanding Dating Violence
Dating Abuse doesn’t always leave cuts and bruises. It ranges from constant insults, put downs, and possessive controlling behaviors; to threats of violence, actual physical violence and sexual abuse. Technology now plays a role in abuse through cell phones, the internet, and social networking sites.
Dating violence can take place in person or electronically, such as repeated texting or posting sexual pictures of a partner online. Unhealthy relationships can start early and last a lifetime. Dating violence often starts with teasing and name calling. These behaviors are often thought to be a “normal” part of a relationship. But these behaviors can lead to more serious violence like physical assault and rape.
Dating abuse can be hard to identify
The reality is that your young teen might not share everything that is happening in his or her life. Do your part – know the warning signs of an unhealthy relationship. Be on the lookout if your child displays any of these potential signs:
- Loses interest in activities that he/she used to enjoy
- Stops seeing friends and family members
- Laughs off their boyfriend’s or girlfriend’s violent behavior
- Wears the same clothing
- Is distracted when spoken to or is quieter than usual
- Constantly checks his/her cell phone and gets upset when asked to turn the phone off
- Is angry or irritable when asked how they are doing
- Has unexplained scratches or bruises
- Stops hanging out with friends or participating in family activities
- Starts having declining grades or missing school
- Seems afraid to disagree with his or her boyfriend or girlfriend; always does what partner wants
For Parents: Ten Tips for Supporting Teens
Also, visit http://www.startstrongteens.org for more parent resources.
More Resources:
CDC’s Dating Matters: Strategies to Promote Healthy Teen Relationships: www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/datingmatters
National Dating Abuse Helpline: 1-866-331-9474 or text 77054
Dating Matters: Understanding Teen Dating Violence Prevention: www.vetoviolence.org/datingmatters
Coaching Boys into Men: http://www.coachescorner.org
Futures Without Violence: http://www.futureswithoutviolence.org
That’s Not Cool: http://www.thatsnotcool.com
Please click here to visit our Beat The Punch site, where you can learn more about Dating Violence.
