Dating Violence About one in three high school students report that they have been hit, slapped or physically hurt by someone they were dating.20 Dating violence includes psychological and emotional abuse, physical abuse, and sexual abuse. As a parent, pay attention to signals that your child could be in an abusive relationship: - suddenly failing grades;
- emotional outbursts;
- isolation;
- pregnancy; and
- any physical sign of injury.
Let your teen know it is never okay for someone to hit them or for them to hit someone else. Violence is never a part of a healthy dating relationship. Teens involved in such violent relationships are more likely to be involved in other risks like alcohol, drugs, attempted suicide, and fighting.21 They are also more likely to be involved in violent, abusive relationships when they become adults. Teens who understand that they have choices will believe they are valuable people who deserve to be treated with respect. Teach them the early warning signs of an abusive relationship: - getting seriously involved way too fast;
- jealousy;
- controlling behaviors;
- bouts of explosive anger;
- being “hyper-sensitive”;
- use of force; and
- threats of violence.
Encourage your son or daughter to develop solid communication with the boy or girl they are dating and set clear rules and boundaries for dating. If someone they date is mean, verbally abusive, controlling or physically violent, help them end that relationship. Teach and demonstrate respect. For more information, visit these Web sites:
http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/dvp/ipv
www.cdc.gov/ncipc/dvp/DatingViolence.htm Last revised: May 28, 2008 | 
