How to Stop Teen Dating Violence
A national survey indicates that one out of every 11 teens is a victim of physical violence within a relationship. The same number have been forced to engage in sex, also a violent act. Victims of teen dating violence suffer fear and a loss of self-esteem. Read on to learn how to stop teen dating violence.
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Instructions
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Think about ways to remain safe. Violence rarely happens in a group situation so arrange dates with other teen couples. Make certain that friends and family know where you'll be and when you'll get home. Keep a cell phone and money with you in case you need to get away quickly or call someone.
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Talk to someone you trust. Let her know you're frightened. Ask for help and allow her to help you. Teachers are required by law to report abuse and suspicions of abuse.
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Call a violence hot line if you want to remain anonymous, but you need to talk to someone. Communities often operate hot lines plus you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-SAFE and the National Crime Victim Helpline at (800) FYI-CALL.
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Remind a friend whom you suspect of using violence against a date that it is both wrong and illegal. Talk to him about getting help to stop the behavior.
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Get help for yourself if you have ever acted violently against someone else. Violence is never the victim's fault, and it is never OK to harm another person. Getting help allows you to learn different ways to deal with your anger and how to act in relationships.
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Educate others about teen dating violence. Work with school counselors to speak to classes about how to recognize signs of violence. If you know a teen in a violent relationship, encourage him or help to talk about it. Ask what you can do to help.
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Contact the courts about getting a protective order to keep a violent person away from you. You may need an adult to ask on your behalf if you're under 18.
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Tips & Warnings
Teen dating violence occurs in both straight and gay relationships.
If a teen wants to stay in a dating relationship, he or she should realize that violence doesn't stop or go away. Often, it gets worse until the person gets help.
