The Basics
What are the warning signs of dating violence?
It’s common for teens to have mood swings and to try out different behaviors. However, sudden changes in your teen’s attitude or behavior could be a sign that something more serious is going on.
If you think this may be the case, talk to your teen to find out more.
Watch for signs that your teen may have a partner who is violent.
Here are some changes you might see in a teen whose partner uses violence:
- Avoiding friends, family, and school activities
- Making excuses for a partner’s behavior
- Looking uncomfortable or fearful around a partner
- Losing interest in favorite activities
- Getting bad grades
- Having unexplained injuries, like bruises or scratches
Watch for signs that your teen may be violent.
People who use physical, emotional, or sexual violence to control their partners also need help to stop. If you see these signs in your child, your teen might need help with violent behaviors:
- Jealousy and possessiveness
- Blaming other people for anything that goes wrong
- Damaging or ruining a partner’s things
- Wanting to control someone else’s decisions
- Constantly texting or calling a partner
- Posting embarrassing information about a partner on Web sites like Facebook (including sexual information or pictures)
