14 Signs Your Teen Is Dealing With Domestic Violence

One in 11 adolescents report being a victim of physical dating abuse (according to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention). Many teenagers are struggling with what it means to have a healthy relationship and adults cannot assume that the warning signs of partner abuse are obvious. Abuse does not discriminate: It transcends race, religion, culture, socioeconomic class and it certainly exists beyond the physical.

It is never too early to talk to your teenager about domestic violence or dating abuse. According to a study by Love is Not Abuse, about 72 percent of 8th and 9th graders are “dating,” and one in three adolescents in the U.S. is a victim of physical, sexual, emotional or verbal abuse from a dating partner (a figure that far exceeds rates of other types of youth violence).

Prevention starts with education. Look for the warning signs and take action. Here are a few of the obvious and not so obvious signs that may indicate that your teen is either in or headed towards an abusive relationship:

1. Sudden changes in their friendship circle

2. Lack of interest in activities, school or failing grades

3. Isolation from friends and family

4. Emotional outbursts

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