Teen Prevention

One in five teens today say that they have been the victim of, or know a friend who has been the victim of, dating violence.

Ten tips to help your teen

• Educate yourself on teen dating violence and access resources that will help you begin the discussion with your teen.
• Talk to your teen about dating violence early. If your teen seems already to be in a dangerous relationship, assure him or her that he or she is not to blame for his or her partner's behavior and that you are there to help.
• Listen to your teen when he or she approaches you about dating abuse. Explain that you are going to help him or her get out of the situation.
• Emphasize that when he or she wants help, it is available. Let your child know that dating violence tends to get worse, becomes more frequent with time, and rarely goes away on its own.
• Work with your teen to identify resources that will help him or her take care of his or herself, provide emotional support, and build self-esteem.
• Look for opportunities to increase your child's self-esteem. Children who believe in themselves and their own worth are better able to choose good partners.
• Be realistic when talking to your teen. Teenagers often have a false picture of romantic relationships. Explain that abuse is not love.
• Share your standards. Talk to your teen about the way he or she should treat and respect others. Explain how you feel he or she should be treated in return.
• Create an open environment. Be open to all of the questions that your child asks. Don't criticize, judge, or jump to conclusions when he or she asks about relationships.
• Try not to criticize or “put down” the abusive partner when talking to your teen. Maintaining a neutral position may help your teen to open up about his or her situation, rather than feeling that you're bashing his or her partner.