Teen Dating Violence - Learn The Signs
According to Youth.gov, across the nation, youth between the ages of 12 and 19 experience the highest rates of rape and sexual assault. Also, studies show that approximately 10% of adolescents reported experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) during the previous year. Girls are particularly vulnerable to experiencing violence in their relationships and are more likely to suffer long-term behavioral and health consequences, including suicide attempts, eating disorders, and drug use.

The National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse (NRFC), has a tip sheet titled, Keeping Teens Safe: Prevent Dating Violence. The tip sheet reminds parents that “best thing parents can do is talk to their teens about the importance of healthy, respectful relationships” and that it’s never too late to start talking to teens about dating violence so, if you have not started today is a great day to do so! 
 
Another resource that may be helpful as you work on starting this often intimidating conversation is, Strategies and Tips for Parents On Talking To Your Teen About Dating Safety which, provides “tips and strategies can help you open the lines of communication with your teen about dating violence and safety.” These talks can include exploring the violence that can occur within a relationship as well as, the confusion and pain they cause. These talks can spark a discussion about preventing abuse and give you a chance to share your beliefs about healthy, non-violent relationships with your child.

For many dads, their teenager’s first date is a huge milestone—for both child and dad.Putting protective factors in place (e.g., high levels of bonding with your child) and reducing risk factors (e.g. participating in peer violence or experiencing stressful life events) will decrease the likelihood that that milestones will lead to your teen’s involvement in dating violence as either a victim or perpetrator. Also, you or your child can contact the Domestic Violence Hotline (Hotline) for information or concerns about dating violence. If, for example, you would like to talk with a trained domestic violence specialist about your child’s relationship, or if your child wants to learn about strategies and tips for identifying an abusive relationship or how to leave one safely, the Hotline is a great resource.