Is your teen being abused?

When someone is a victim of violence they might brush off, excuse, or even attempt to laugh about troubling or violent behavior from their partner. Remember that they are feeling vulnerable and need your support. Believe what they tell you and don’t get mad or angry with them for what they are telling you. They need to know they can trust you and if you overreact or blame them, they will lose trust in you and may stop confiding in you.

Signs of an abusive relationship​

• They are depressed or anxious.

• They have unexplained bruises or marks.

• They stop participating in activities they used to enjoy.

• They start to dress differently or dress out of character.

• Their partner is extremely jealous, possessive or controlling to the point that they stop spending time with family and friends.

• They are concerned about what might happen if they do not call their partner back.

• They are worried about how their partner might react in certain situations.​

Tips to start the conversation

• Remind them what healthy behavior in a relationship is.

• Make sure you know who they are dating.

• Help them recognize red flags for abuse.

• Pick the right time to talk — it is often best to start casually.

• Relate the topic to their everyday lives, ask about their friends or TV couples.

• Point out to them when abusive behavior is modeled on TV or with friends/family.

• Encourage them to talk to you when they feel unsafe.

• Don’t make them break off unhealthy relationships, this will be their choice in the end.