woman comforting a child

Parents of Teens

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 your teen have unexplained bruises, scratches, or injuries?
  • Do you see signs that your teen is afraid of his/her boyfriend or girlfriend?
  • Does the boyfriend or girlfriend seem to try to control your teen’s behavior — making all of the decisions, checking up on his/her behavior, demanding to know who your teen has been with, and acting jealous and possessive?
  • Does the boyfriend or girlfriend lash out, criticize, or insult your teen?
  • Does your teen apologize for the boyfriend or girlfriend’s behavior to you and others? Has your 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 act abusively toward other people, animals or things?
  • Does your teen seem to have lost interest or to be giving up things that were once important? Has your teen lost interest in school or other activities? Has your teen's appearance or behavior suddenly changed?
  • Has your teen stopped spending time with friends and family?
  • Have you seen sudden changes in your teen’s mood or personality? Is your teen becoming anxious or depressed, acting out, or being secretive? Is your teen avoiding eye contact, having ‘crying jags’ or getting ‘hysterical’?
  • Has your teen recently started using alcohol or drugs?

Research shows that teens are reluctant to tell their parents and other caring adults about abuse either because they fear consequences or because they are unable to interpret various behaviors as abusive. Talking with teens openly and honestly about healthy relationships increases the likelihood that they will approach you about unhealthy relationships.

It is never too early or too late to teach self-respect.





















The information found on this site is not to replace the one-on-one advocacy and services HAVEN provides. The visitor agrees not to hold HAVEN From Domestic Violence responsible for any damages that might result from using information provided on this site.

If you are in danger, call 911 immediately.

HAVEN is a United Way Agency

united way