Too many teens, both guys and girls, are in abusive relationships, yet many do not recognize just how common teen dating/relationship violence really is.  Some sources have found that 1 out of every 10 teen relationships is impacted by some form of abuse.
 
Teens who are in an abusive or violent relationship often don’t tell others about it - they may not recognize it for what it is, they may feel they are to blame and/or deserve it, they may be embarrassed, or fear the loss of the relationship.
 
Teen dating/relationship violence can take many forms - verbal, physical or sexual.  Verbally, the abuser may attempt to control their partner, bully, insult or threaten them.  Physically, the abuser may punch, slap, hit or kick their partner causing bodily injury.  Sexually, they may force their partner to have sex - this is often known as date rape.
 
But, in all cases, these are acts of violence, and the sooner a young person recognizes the signs of an unhealthy, abusive relationship, the sooner they will be able to seek help and safety.  Dating violence can be deadly.
 
Young people also need to develop an understanding of what is a “normal” relationship and the “how to’s” of dating safely.  Parents must be educated as well so they can help their teen develop healthy relationships and recognize when a relationship may be unhealthy.
 
Our teen dating and violence prevention resources can help.