Know How to Get Out of Teen Dating Violence
- Alert the school counselor or security officer.
- Avoid being alone at school, your job, on the way to and from places.
- Do not meet your partner alone. Do not let him or her in your home or car when you are alone.
- Keep a daily log of the abuse.
- Plan and rehearse what you would do if your partner became abusive.
- Tell your parents, a friend, a counselor, a clergyman, or someone else whom you trust and who can help. The more isolated you are from friends and family, the more control the abuser has over you.
- Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to be back.
Being a Friend to a Victim of Abuse
Most teens talk to other teens about their problems. If a friend tells you he or she is being victimized, here are some suggestions on how you can help.
- Call the police if you witness an assault. Tell an adult - a school principal, parent, guidance counselor.
- Encourage them to confide in a trusted adult. Talk to a trusted adult if you believe the situation is getting worse. Offer to go with them for help.
- Express your concerns. Tell your friend you're worried. Support, don't judge.
- If you notice a friend is in an abusive relationship, don't ignore signs of abuse. Talk to your friend.
- Point out your friend's strengths - many people in abusive relationships are no longer capable of seeing their own abilities and gifts.
- Never put yourself in a dangerous situation with the victim's partner. Don't be a mediator.
