Teen Talk: A Parent's Guide to Teen Dating

Teen dating: Have fun, be safe.
Let's face it, when our teenager wants to start dating it can be extremely stressful for the parent.  The real life pain of falling in love and breaking up can devastate a youth.  It is important you not only talk to your teens about dating and the emotions they may go through, but also about dating safety.  Teen dating violence is a serious concern - and an issue that is becoming more prevalent. 

What is Teen Dating Violence?

Teen dating violence is a pattern of controlling, abusive and aggressive behavior in a romantic relationship. It can happen to anyone, regardless of race, gender, age or socioeconomic status. Abusive behaviors may include
some of the following:
  • Physical: punching, kicking, slapping, choking, pinching, hair pulling
  • Verbal: name calling , put downs, threats , spreading rumors
  • Emotional: Feelings of isolation, fear, worthlessness, low self-esteem
  • Sexual: pressuring to have sex, rape, forcing unprotected sex, unwanted touching

  • Financial: forcing a partner to pay, giving an allowance, manipulating pay checks/credit cards
Read more.

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