As a parent, you play a big role in ending teen dating abuse. Teens need the support of their parents, being able to communicate (even in a rocky parent-teen relationship) and getting a parent’s advice are essential for a teen to end the abuse.
Recognize the signs
- Make changes in their daily rituals
- Retreat from school or activities they used to find enjoyment in
- Become more isolated from friends, and even family members
- Make changes in clothing or general appearance
- Have visible marks or bruises, or wear clothes inappropriate for the season to hide these
- Spend excessive amounts of time with the person they’re dating
- Seem anxious about upsetting their partner
What can you do?
- Ask questions about your teen's life and be prepared to LISTEN
- Be slow to react, and keep a non-judgmental mindset
- Support your teen as they decide what to do
- Open up clear channels of communication, let them know they can come and talk to you
- Remain calm and take positive action, offer to help connect them with a local counselor or agency that can also provide further support or guidance.
- Call our 24 hr. crisis line at (530)244-0117