Dating Abuse
You can help stop it!
Warning Signs
- Jealousy- Wants to be with you constantly, Accuses you of cheating frequently.
- Controlling Behavior- Pretends to be looking out for you. Acts as though you cannot make decisions on your own.
- Quick Involvement- Claims love at first sight, great pressure for commitment.
- Unrealistic Expectations- Compliments you until you feel almost superhuman, needs you to be perfect.
- Isolation- Tries to cut you off from family and friends. Puts down everyone you know and refuses to let you talk on the phone to others.
- Blaming Others for Problems- Problems during the day are always somebody else's. Anything that happens in the relationship is automatically your fault.
- Hypersensitivity- Abuser thinks that everything is a personal attack on them.
- Disrespectful and Cruel to Others- Insensitive to pain or suffering. Doesn't treat others with respect
Ask family and friends for help! leave the relationship
1 in 3 teens will experience dating abuse
Cycle of violence
How to Help a Friend in an Abusive Realationship
If the warning signs (above) are present, to help a friend do the following:
- Listen to your friend and always be there for them
- Acknowledge the level of abuse
- Contact an adult you trust IMMEDIATELY
- Encourage your friend to stay strong
- Tell your friend about agencies like The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-866-331-9474