According to the National Domestic Abuse Hotline, each year 1.5 million high school students experience physical abuse from a dating partner.  Only one-third of those victims seek help.

Dating violence is the verbal, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse of a partner. Teen victims of dating violence pose a higher risk of substance abuse and eating disorders as well as a risk of future abuse. To address this problem, The National Crime Prevention Council and AlertID have joined forces to raise awareness and offer warning signs, advice for parents, and resources for victims. 

Warning signs are apparent if the victim: 

— Makes excuses and apologizes for his or her partner’s behaviors;

— Often has unexplained injuries, such as bruises or body pain;

— Isolates him or herself from family and friends and only deals with his or her partner;

— Is frequently called or texted by the dating partner, demanding to know where and with whom he or she has been; or

— Is frequently upset or depressed but is unwilling to discuss the cause.

The council recommends that parents: 

— Be a good example: Displaying positive and healthy relationships will model what an appropriate and respectful relationship with a significant other looks like;

— Teach their children to trust their judgment: Having an open conversation about dating violence, physical and verbal abuse is important in preparing a child to know how to safely and properly avoid abusive relationships; and

— Create an open environment: Children should know that they can come to their parents in times of need for support — not criticism or judgment.  Maintaining a neutral position may help teens to open up about their partners, so parents should listen and not immediately jump to conclusions. Parents should assure their children they are not to blame for abusive relationships.

Resources include:

— The National Domestic Violence Hotline: Dating Abuse Helpline offers real-time, one-on-one support from peer advocates. Text “loveis” to 22522 or Call 1-866-331-9474;

— Loveisrespect: www.loveisrespect.org: A website that aims to educate individuals on what it’s like to be in an abusive relationship and the importance of being able to identify healthy relationships; and

— Parent Help Guide to Start the Conversation with Your Teen: http://www.itstimetotalkday.org/sites/default/files/How-To-Start-A-Conversation-Guide.pdf