This past week I watched a disturbing Dr. Phil show, “Teens Obsessed with Love.” It went beyond the whole idea of a teen believing they are in love to the point where violence was going on. It used to be a domestic partner phenomenon but now teen dating violence has become a new and growing problem.
What could ever cause a teen to become violent with the one they supposedly “love?” What could cause a teen to allow someone else to victimize them? I can’t say that I completely understand it but it opens up the opportunity to have some discussions with my own teens.
I can’t stress to my sons enough that there is never a valid reason to put your hand on a female…nothing. Even if a female were to hit them (which of course I am also against) I don’t care, they are to never lay a hand on them.
I also can’t stress to my daughter enough that she has too much value to ever allow a male to treat her that way. I just pray she has enough self respect and self worth to really believe this.
So what are the signs of teen dating violence? If your teen is dating it is important to be aware of the signs. Of course there are many more signs that may indicate it is taking place but some of the more common signs that your teen may be getting abused include depression, changes in personality/mood, becomes more isolated, physical signs of unexplained injuries and makes excuses for the abuser.
It is also important to be aware of signs that indicate your teen may be the abuser such as jealousy, controlling, verbally abusive, unpredictable mood swings, explosive anger and treats other teen as if she is a possession.
It’s important to not only discuss teen dating violence with your own teen but to be aware of the signs. Sadly, it happens more often than you might think.
Related Articles:
Teen Dating: When Your Teen Isn’t Ready
Teen Dating: When Your Teen Is Ready