Date: February 12, 2025
As a parent, it can seem difficult to get your teens to open up and discuss their personal lives with you, especially when it comes to dating and relationships. Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is a reminder to stay connected and discuss what healthy, unhealthy and abusive relationships may look like with your teen. Talking about partnerships may feel uncomfortable, but these tips can help you start and maintain an honest conversation about dating.
- Introduce the subject by talking about their friends and peers at school
- Talk about your own relationship
- Ask and encourage questions about dating
- Establish mutual trust
- Listen actively and maintain a judgment-free attitude
- Avoid lecturing
If your teen reveals they are in an unhealthy or abusive relationship, listen and accept what they say. Remind them that they deserve to be treated with respect. Violence or abuse is not their fault. Be prepared to support them mentally and emotionally and decide on next steps together. If you need to seek help, there are resources available.
Chickasaw Nation Domestic Violence Services assists those who live in or are relocating within the Chickasaw Nation and are experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking. Teens can also call or text (844) 7NATIVE or visit StrongHeartsHelpline.org to chat with an advocate. Parents or guardians can learn more about the signs of teen dating violence at TeenDVMonth.org.
For more information, visit Chickasaw.net/DomesticViolence or call (580) 272-5580.