As you may already know from following our social media
accounts, February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (#TDVAM). Our
Education Specialist took over the Instagram and Facebook pages to educate our
followers on this issue. She worked hard to create the amazing graphics you
have been seeing the last couple of weeks.
Why is it
so important to our Prevention Team to spread the word about TDVAM?
As the Education Specialist has
explained, “Young people (ages 11-24) who are in abusive or unhealthy
relationships are at a higher risk of experiencing domestic violence (DV) in
relationships they have as adults. Teens and young adults often think some behaviors,
like teasing and name-calling, are a ‘normal’ part of a relationship—but these
behaviors can become abusive and develop into serious forms of violence.”
We encourage all parents and guardians
to take signs of dating violence seriously, because the dating habits teens
form often follow them into adulthood. Teens deserve to have healthy
relationships now and in the future.
What can you do if you think your teen is
experiencing dating violence?
·
Listen and support your teen.
o
Be patient.
o
Remember it is not their fault and be sure to tell
them so.
o
Try to stay calm while having the conversation.
·
Believe your teen if they open up to you first.
o
Don’t minimize the abuse.
·
Show concern.
o
“You don’t deserve to be treated like this.”
·
Focus on the behavior of the person.
o
“I don’t like the way he/she treats you.” Instead
of “I don’t like him/her.”
·
Avoid ultimatums, such as threats to punish your
teen if they don’t stop dating the person.
·
Be prepared.
o
Educate yourself and practice talking to your teen
BEFORE this happens.
What to
learn more? Here are some great resources:
Our Prevention Team is available to speak at high/middle schools,
colleges, churches, community groups and businesses. Contact one of our staff for
more information.
Sarah, Prevention Program Coordinator sarahr@safehouse.org
EP, Education Specialist epcade@safehouse.org
No comments:
Post a Comment