LISD Flyer:Dating Abuse/ViolenceEng

Unhealthy relationships can start early and last a lifetime. Teen dating abuse or violence can take place in person, online, or through technology. It is a type of intimate partner violence that can include the following types of behavior:

• Physical violence is when a person hurts or tries to hurt a partner by hitting, kicking, or using another type of physical force.
  
• Sexual violence involves forcing or attempting to force a partner into sexual acts or touching without their consent, including situations where the partner cannot consent. It also includes non-physical behaviors, like sharing sexual images or sexting.
  
• Psychological aggression is the use of verbal and non-verbal communication with the intent to harm a partner mentally or emotionally and exert control over a partner.
  
• Stalking is a pattern of repeated, unwanted attention and contact by a current or former partner that causes fear or safety concerns for an individual victim or someone close to the victim.
  

Teen dating violence profoundly impacts lifelong health, opportunity, and wellbeing. Unhealthy relationships can start early and last a lifetime. The good news is violence is preventable, and we can all help young people grow up violence-free.

Teens often think some behaviors, like teasing and name-calling, are a "normal" part of a relationship. However, these behaviors can become abusive and develop into serious forms of violence. Many teens do not report unhealthy behaviors because they are afraid to tell family and friends.

Teen dating abuse and violence is common.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), teen dating violence — also called, “dating violence” and "dating abuse" — is an adverse childhood experience that affects millions of young people in the U.S.:

• 1 in 3 U.S. teens will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from someone they’re in a relationship with before they become adults.

Teen dating abuse and violence can be influenced by a variety of risk factors. Understanding these can help with prevention and early intervention. Here are some key risk factors:

• History of trauma or abuse
• Aggressive behavior
• Poor emotional regulation
• Low self-esteem
• Lack of conflict-resolution and communication skills, etc.
• Jealousy or possessiveness in a relationship
• Lack of healthy relationships and/or role models

Behavioral Changes

• Sudden withdrawal from friends, family, or activities

• Constant checking in with their partner or needing to “ask permission”

• Drop in grades or school attendance

• Giving up hobbies or interests they used to enjoy

• Seeming nervous, anxious, or fearful around their partner

  
  

Emotional Signs

• Low self-esteem or increased self-blame

• Signs of depression or anxiety

• Unexplained crying or emotional outbursts

• Intense jealousy or insecurity within the relationship

  
  

Physical Signs

• Unexplained bruises, scratches, or injuries

• Changes in appearance (e.g., dressing differently to hide injuries)

• Sudden changes in health or eating/sleeping habits

  
  

Digital/Online Red Flags

• Partner constantly texting or calling to check up on them

• Being pressured to send explicit photos (sexting)

• Monitoring of social media accounts, passwords, or devices

• Partner shows controlling behavior through tracking apps or threats online

  
  

Warning Signs a Teen May Be Abusing Their Partner

• Extreme jealousy or possessiveness

• Insulting, belittling, or controlling their partner

• Explosive temper or mood swings

• Making threats or trying to intimidate their partner

• Pressuring their partner into unwanted activities (e.g., isolation from others, sexting, etc.)

• Monitoring or controlling their partner's social life or communication

• Strong parent-child relationships
  
• Supportive peer networks
  
• Access to education/knowledge of about healthy relationships vs. unhealthy relationships
  
• Involvement in extracurricular or community activities
  
• Trusted adults or mentors
  
• Strong self-esteem and self-respect
• Emotional regulation and coping skills
• Good communication and conflict resolution skills
• Empathy and respect for others' boundaries
• Positive role models (peers, family, media, etc.)

These skills include:

Educating about Healthy Relationship Skills vs. Unhealthy Relationships

• Teach youth about respect, trust, consent, and communication

• Discuss the difference between healthy, unhealthy, and abusive behaviors

• Use age-appropriate lessons starting early

• Include topics like setting boundaries, resolving conflict, and emotional safety

  
  

Building Self-Worth and Confidence

• Help youth develop a positive self-image and strong sense of identity

• Encourage them to speak up for themselves and assert boundaries

• Celebrate their strengths and achievements regularly

  
  

Encouraging Open Communication

• Create safe spaces where teens can talk without judgment

• Encourage them to come to trusted adults with questions or concerns

• Model honest, respectful communication in your own relationships

  
  

Involving Students and Parents/Caregivers

• Encourage parents/caregivers to model healthy, respectful behavior

• Help parents/caregivers/students to recognize signs of abuse and how to intervene early

• Promote a positive climate (school and home) based on inclusion and respect

• Encourage student involvement in sports, clubs, organizations, etc.
  

Addressing Media and Technology Influence

• Talk about how TV, music, social media, and influencers portray relationships

• Teach digital respect: privacy, consent, and online boundaries

• Help them recognize red flags like jealousy, controlling behaviors, or pressure to sext

All relationships exist on a spectrum, from healthy to abusive to somewhere in between. Behaviors that occur in healthy, unhealthy and abusive relationships are outlined below:

Reach out to your student's school counselor today! 😀