February 12, 2025

Helping Teens Avoid Violent Relationships


February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, an important time to discuss the dangers of unhealthy relationships among teens. Dating violence can have lasting emotional and physical effects, making it important for parents to educate their teens to recognize warning signs and maintain healthy boundaries in relationships.

Understanding Teen Dating Violence

Teen dating violence encompasses physical, emotional, sexual and digital abuse. It can include behaviors such as hitting, intimidation, manipulation, sexual coercion or controlling access to friends and family. In the digital age, it might also involve excessive monitoring through text messages, social media or tracking apps.

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Tips for Avoiding Violent Relationships

      1. Model Healthy Relationships: Parents can demonstrate respect, communication and equality in their relationships. Teens often learn about relationships by observing the adults in their lives.
      2. Teach Healthy Boundaries: Help your teen understand that relationships should feel safe, supportive and empowering. Encourage teens to express their needs and respect their partner's boundaries.
      3. Talk About Consent: Ensure your son or daughter understands that consent is mandatory in all interactions. Make it clear that "no" should always be respected and mutual agreement is key to healthy relationships.
      4. Boost Self-Esteem: Encourage your teen to value themselves and their own worth. A strong sense of self can help teens resist relationships where they are not treated with respect.

Warning Signs of a Dangerous Relationship

If your teen is in a dangerous relationship, he or she may exhibit the following behaviors:

  • Withdrawal from Friends and Family: Isolation is a tactic many abusers use to control their partner.
  • Changes in Behavior or Mood: Depression, anxiety or a sudden lack of interest in hobbies can indicate an unhealthy relationship.
  • Frequent Communication with Their Partner: Constant texting or calls, especially if they seem stressful or obligatory, can be a red flag.
  • Unexplained Injuries: Physical violence may be a factor if your teen has bruises or other injuries they can’t explain.
  • Fear or Nervousness Around Their Partner: Pay attention to body language and tone when your teen interacts with a partner.

What to Do If Your Teen Is in an Unhealthy Relationship

      1. Start a Nonjudgmental Conversation: Create a safe space for your teen to open up about their experiences. Listen more than you speak and avoid blaming her or him for the situation.
      2. Educate About Abuse: Explain what constitutes abuse and why it’s never acceptable. Share resources and stories of others who’ve sought help.
      3. Seek Professional Support: Encourage counseling or therapy for your teen to help navigate their emotions and build coping skills. Many local resources offer specialized support for teens experiencing dating violence.
      4. Involve Trusted Adults or Authorities: If there is immediate danger, don’t hesitate to involve school counselors, law enforcement or community organizations for support.
      5. Encourage a Safety Plan: Help your teen plan safe ways to exit the relationship, including who to call for help and how to avoid contact with the abuser.

Resources for Help

If you or your teen need assistance, these organizations can help:

  • National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline: Call or text “LOVEIS” to 22522 for confidential support.
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 800-799-SAFE (7233).
  • Local Resources in Goldsboro, NC: Reach out to community organizations and counselors specializing in teen relationships and abuse, or call us at Goldsboro Pediatrics.

Final Thoughts

Educating your teen about healthy relationships and being proactive about recognizing warning signs can make a significant difference in preventing teen dating violence. Open communication, trust and access to resources are critical tools in ensuring your teen’s safety and well-being. If you suspect abuse, talk with our team at Goldsboro Pediatrics. Support teens in building healthy, respectful relationships that will positively impact their futures.

Sources:
Current Opinion in Pediatrics
National Safe Place Network
Love Is Respect
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention




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