Domestic Violence - Teen dating
Dating violence is any attempt to gain power and control over another person using various tactics.
- From Project PAVE
Just as adult relationships can be abusive, so can teen relationships. In the beginning these partners may appear warm, loving, kind and understanding. This type of partner knows how to make someone feel special. Over time the partner begins to assert control over the teen. Initially, the constant attention given by the partner and the partner's need for attention may seem flattering, but eventually the partner will isolate the teen from family and friends and may become scary. It's important to take this type of behavior seriously as it will only worsen. Talk with your parents and/or a trusted adult if you or someone you know is in this type of relationship.
Teens deserve relationships where both partners are treated with love and respect all of the time. Parents, let teens know that they are valuable people. Teach them the warning signs of teen dating violence so they can make safe, healthy choices.
Some Warning Signs (from the perspective of a teen witness):
- The partner tells your friend what to wear, who to hang out with and when he or she can see friends.
- Their partner is constantly jealous, possessive and controlling.
- Their partner plays mind games and uses guilt trips like, "If you really loved me, you would..." or "I'll kill myself if you leave me," and other manipulations.
- The Partner sometimes pressures your friend for intimacy, touching him or her inappropriately and without permission, or is sometimes forceful or scary around sex stuff.
- You have noticed a change in your friend's mood, personality, eating habits, etc. since he or she started dating their partner.
- Your friend apologizes for their partner's behavior and makes excuses for the partner.
- The friend skips classes or does not participate in activities that he or she used to, cannot hang out with friends or family anymore because the friend has to be with their dating partner.
- Your friend becomes isolated.
- Your friend has unexplained bruises, cuts, bite marks, burns, or scratches on his or her body.
- Your friend checks in with their partner after every class, and when out with friends, because he or she doesn't want to make their partner "worry" or be upset.
- From Project PAVE and Colorado Coalition Against Domestic Violence