Tips and Approaches to Prevent Domestic Violence Among Teens

When someone experiences domestic violence as a teenager, it makes it difficult to sleep and causes more anxiety. Depression, substance abuse, and addictions might occur due to traumatic events. Also, post-traumatic stress disorder is one side effect of domestic violence among teenagers. However, other side effects such as eating disorders and harming themselves are another reaction to remembering those painful moments. Yet, risky behaviors and isolation are another worrisome issue that transpires from violence in dating at an early age.

Dating violence happens to some during high school and it might continue in college. This pattern continues if the traumatic experiences are not treated with therapy and medical professionals. Domestic violence among teens can be prevented by attending workshops at school that bring awareness of dating safely and promoting awareness campaigns. Additionally, having workshops or sessions with parents at school to discuss dating violence among teenagers. It is necessary to find time to listen attentively and to attend a session or workshop for preventing violence while dating as a teenager.

As a parent, get to know your teenager's friends and their dating partners. Let them know they can trust you. As well as not keeping secrets between you and them. Talk about back-to-school events or what happened throughout the day. Make it a priority to talk about healthy relationships and unhealthy relationships. 

Review the warning signs of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual bullying, and unhealthy relationships. But do not be too forceful in making it a speech. Instead, make it part of a natural conversation with your teenager. Observe any changes in behavior, changes in appearance, and antisocial behavior. Furthermore, any changes in hygiene, eating habits, and low grades in school.

Be available for your teenager if they need to discuss peer pressure, bullying, or a controlling partner. Be open-minded and reserve your opinions. Listen assertively and never leave them alone if they have suicidal thoughts. Approach your teenager with finesse. Speak to their friends if needed if they suspect dating violence. 

Before your teenager goes on a date, review safety tips with them. For example, never leave your drink or food unattended. Always have your cell phone fully charged and a person to contact in case you need to leave early from your date. Carry enough money in your purse, wallet, and pockets. Let your parents know what day, what time, and where you will be with your dating partner.

Moreover, say it delicately and without shouting at your teenager. If needed have a curfew time so you can feel less stressed out as a parent. Set good examples as a couple for your teenager's awareness of what a healthy relationship looks like. If you are a single parent, make sure your married family members are good role models for your teenager. Furthermore, if your teenager is in an abusive relationship, end it as soon as possible.

Change schools and monitor your teenager's online usage. Take necessary actions with the police. Follow any instructions and fill out the necessary documents. Follow up on any legal actions. Do not skip any behavioral services or therapy for your child. 

If you are a teenager experiencing dating violence, do not be afraid to use your voice. Speak to your parents if you are in an abusive relationship or dating violence. Get resources from a school professional, or school therapist, and report dating violence. Do not blame yourself for letting it happen. Be courageous and report it immediately to your parents. 

Speak to someone you can trust, a school professional, and communicate with authorities if you are in an abusive relationship. Do not take a shower and let a medical professional collect evidence for reporting purposes. Take pictures of any bruises to report to the police. Attend therapy sessions for your mental and physical healing. Here are resources about dating violence among teens. 

 

Domestic Violence Support-National Domestic Violence Hotline:

Domestic Violence Support | National Domestic Violence Hotline (thehotline.org)

The Cycle of Teen Domestic Violence-Very Well Family:

The Cycle of Teen Domestic Violence (verywellfamily.com)

Children, Youth, and Teens-Futures Without Violence Futures Without Violence:

CHILDREN, YOUTH & TEENS - Futures Without Violence Futures Without Violence

10 Ways You Can Help Prevent Domestic Violence Locally- Domestic Shelters:

10 Ways You Can Help Prevent Domestic Violence Locally (domesticshelters.org)

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