Teen Dating Violence Prevention Awareness

Many people think of school shootings when they think of teen violence. But teen violence includes many different activities. These include fights, gang violence, suicide and teen dating violence. February is National Teen Dating Violence Prevention Awareness month. Teens who commit acts of violence are more often than not involved in other risky and/or criminal activities. Make it your business to know who your kids hang out with and encourage healthy behavior and relationships.

1 in 3 adolescents in the US will be a victim of physical, emotional or sexual abuse from a dating partner. Nearly 80% of girls who have been physically abused in their intimate relationships continue to date their abuser. And two-thirds of teens who are in an abusive relationship never tell anyone about the abuse. It’s time to shine a light on this issue.

Get to know your teens’ friends. Encourage your teens to bring their friends to your home. Allow your teens to speak openly about their friendships. Listen don’t judge! Discuss the following warning signs of abuse with your teenage sons and daughters.

Ten Warning Signs of Abuse

While there are many warning signs of abuse, here are ten of the most common abusive behaviors:

• Checking your cell phone or email without permission
• Constantly putting you down
• Extreme jealousy or insecurity
• Explosive temper
• Isolating you from family or friends
• Making false accusations
• Mood swings
• Physically hurting you in any way
• Possessiveness
• Telling you what to do

Our teenagers have a right to safe and healthy relationships. As parents we should take the lead in raising awareness among teens and helping in the prevention of teen dating violence.

There are many ways that you can take part:

• Encourage legislators to introduce laws that require teen dating violence education in the classroom. Teens spend the majority of their time in school or at school-related activities and without laws in place to protect them, domestic and sexual violence among teens will continue to cause upheaval at home and at school.
• Know the laws http://www.breakthecycle.org/content/teen-dating-violence-state-law-report-cards.
• Take the time to educate yourself and others about teen dating violence.

We can make a difference. Be aware, be encouraging, be an advocate and embrace your journey.

Resources

Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

www.breakthecycle.org

www.loveisrespect.org

www.thesafespace.org