February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, an opportunity to focus on preventing teen dating violence and empowering young people with the knowledge to build healthy relationships. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 12 high school students experience physical dating violence, and another 1 in 12 face sexual dating violence. These statistics highlight the importance of protecting teens from unhealthy relationships through open communication, education, and support.
How to Talk to Your Teen About Healthy Relationships
Engaging in open conversations with your children about healthy relationships can help prevent teen dating violence. Here are some tips to guide your discussion:
Create a Safe Space for Discussions:
Talk openly about family values, sexual health, and healthy relationship dynamics. Ensure these discussions are non-judgmental and held in a safe environment where your children feel comfortable sharing. Healthy relationships are built on respect, equality, trust, communication, and consent (Love is Respect Action Guide, 2024).
Educate About Consent:
Teach your children about consent, which can be remembered with the FRIES acronym:
- Freely Given – Consent is a choice made without pressure or manipulation.
- Reversible – Anyone can change their mind at any time.
- Informed – Both individuals should fully understand the situation.
- Enthusiastic – Consent should be given with genuine excitement, not reluctance.
- Specific – Consent is needed for each activity, every time.
Talk About Online Safety and Digital Boundaries:
Be mindful of how your children are interacting online. Have conversations about online safety, including sexting, cyberbullying, and other forms of digital abuse.
Recognize the Signs of Unhealthy Relationships:
Remind them that violence in unhealthy relationships isn’t limited to romantic relationships. Unhealthy relationships can involve emotional manipulation, isolation, and digital abuse. Encourage the to look for red flags such as:
- Extreme jealousy or possessiveness
- Controlling behaviors
- Insults or belittling
- Threats or intimidation
Talking openly about the differences between healthy and unhealthy relationships can help your children understand how to build positive connections based on mutual respect.
Information in this article is derived from resources shared by Meggie Evans, Assistant Director of Clinical Services at the Denver Child Advocacy Center.
