Having a healthy relationship starts at home. Children learn how to treat a loved one from their parents and it’s often difficult to discipline teens about healthy relationships if you don’t lead by example. Any teen can be at risk for dating abuse, which is why parents should be extra vigilant and learn about the common warning signs of dating abuse.
One in three adolescents in the U.S. is a victim of physical, sexual, emotional or verbal abuse from a dating partner and this is unacceptable. According to Break the Cycle, dating abuse is a pattern of abusive behaviors. Most of the time it’s a series of abusive behaviors over a course of time where one partner exerts power and control over their partner.
These types of abuse can come in a variety of forms and it’s important for teens to know the difference between joking and someone being showing abusive behavior. For example, someone can destroy property, give a mean stare, and even abuse pets to show intimidation. Many times these early signs of teen violence can be brushed off as nothing too serious, but more often than we like these things lead to threats and even sexual coercion.
Warning Signs of An Abusive Partner
- Checking cell phones, emails or social networks without permission
- Extreme jealousy or insecurity
- Constant belittling or put-downs
- Explosive temper
- Isolation from family and friends
- Making false accusations
- Erratic mood swings
- Physically inflicting pain or hurt in any way
- Possessiveness
- Telling someone what to do
- Repeatedly pressuring someone to have sex
Warning Signs of Someone Being Abused
- Extremely jealous boyfriend or girlfriend
- Isolation, they keep to themselves
- Sudden changes in personality or appearance
- Injuries and excuses for clear signs of physical abuse
- Absences from work or school
- Accusations of having affairs
- Fear of conflict with their boyfriend or girlfriend
- Lack of sleep
- Crying for no reason
- Visibly unhappy
- Self-blame
As a parent of a teen, you always have to be vigilant and have good communication with your children. Many times they are blind to these warning signs because they are in love with this person and hide what they are experiencing. It’s important to talk to them and get them the help they need by talking to a school counselor or a child therapist in order to get them the help they need.