For parents of teens
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Warning Signs of Dating Violence
Teens generally do not tell people when they are involved in a violent relationship, so it is important for adults and friends to be alert for signs that a teen may be involved in a relationship that is, or has the potential to become, abusive.
Some of the following signs are just part of being a teen. But, when these changes happen suddenly, or without an explanation, there may be cause for concern.
- Does the teen have unexplained bruises, scratches, or injuries?
- Do you see signs that the teen is afraid of his/her boyfriend or girlfriend?
- Does the boyfriend or girlfriend seem to try to control the teen’s behavior, making all of the decisions, checking up on his/her behavior, demanding to know who the teen has been with, and acting jealous and possessive?
- Does the boyfriend or girlfriend lash out, criticize, or insult the teen?
- Does the teen apologize for the boyfriend or girlfriend’s behavior to you and others? Has the teen casually mentioned the boyfriend or girlfriend’s temper or violent behavior, but then laughed it off as a joke?
- Have you seen the boyfriend or girlfriend be abusive towards other people or things?
- Does the teen seem to have lost interest or to be giving up things that were once important? Has he/she lost interest in school or other activities?
- Has the teen's appearance or behavior suddenly changed?
- Has the teen stopped spending time with friends and family?
- Have you seen sudden changes in the teen’s mood or personality? Is the teen becoming anxious or depressed, acting out, or being secretive? Is the teen avoiding eye contact, having ‘crying jags’ or getting ‘hysterical?’
- Has the teen recently started using alcohol or drugs?
