Many parents are unaware of how prevalent teen dating violence is. Having an unhealthy relationship can lead to devastating consequences emotionally, physically and mentally for teenagers. Parents and teens need to become more educated and should talk about the importance of healthy relationships, what is acceptable in a relationship and what to do if they become a victim of dating violence.
Definition
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, teen dating violence is defined as defined as the physical, sexual or psychological/emotional violence within a dating relationship. It can be called many different things such as dating abuse, domestic violence or relationship violence. There is also a continuum of behavior from name-calling to rape or physical abuse.
Prevalence
While parents may know that teen dating violence exists, they may not be aware of the how often it occurs. According to Love is Respect, one in five teens who have been in a serious relationship have been hit, slapped or pushed by her partner. An even more alarming statistic is that one in three girls who have been in a serious relationship stated that they were concerned about being physically hurt. Twenty-three percent of girls report that they went further sexually in a relationship as a result of pressure.
Signs of an Unhealthy Relationship
Teens and adults may have trouble reading into whether or not an unhealthy relationship exists. Different signs that may indicate an unhealthy relationship include an a partner that has an excessive amount of jealousy, is excessively controlling or exerts pressure to do things including sexually. If a teen feels guilty, is not spending time doing the things that he loves or with family and friends he would normally spend time with, he may be in an unhealthy relationship.
How to Talk About It
During adolescence, parents may find it difficult to approach different subjects with their teen. Parents should talk to their children about healthy relationships, signs of an unhealthy relationship and be positive role models for their children even before their child is ready for a relationship. It is important that parents provide support and let their teen know that they are there for him if he becomes a victim in any abusive situation. There are many different hotlines available, such as the National Teen Dating Abuse Hotline, which provides services and referrals to parents of teens that are victims or teens who are victims of teen dating violence.
