Preventing Teen Partner Abuse
There are differences between healthy and abusive relationships. Teens make better decisions about their relationships when they understand these differences and get support. As a health care provider, educator, or other trusted adult, you can help prevent teen partner abuse.
What is it?
Teen partner abuse is abuse that affects teenagers in their relationships. Some people call it intimate partner violence, but it is important to understand that physical violence is only one form of abuse. Many teens, both male and female, deal with emotional and verbal abuse in their relationships that can escalate into physical violence. It has been estimated that one out of 5 teens suffers from intimate partner violence.
Who is affected?
Boyfriends and girlfriends, including those in same-sex relationships, are affected by intimate partner abuse. This kind of abuse takes a toll on friends and family members as well.
What can you do?
Support the teens you serve:
- Take the time to listen to teens share about their relationships.
- Talk with teens about the difference between healthy and abusive relationships.
- Help them learn how to resolve conflicts without violence.
- Help them get the help they need if there is violence or other kinds of abuse in their relationships.
As a healthcare provider or educator, you can also ensure that teens and parents have access to information at the clinic or school office.
- Provide flyers, handouts and other materials help empower teens to develop healthy relationships. One great resource you might find helpful is “Is it really Love?”
- Have posters in the waiting area and other locations where teens and parents can see and read them.
- Refer teens and parents to helpful websites, like www.teensource.org or www.safeyouth.org.
Know where to refer teens if they need more help than you can provide!