Dating Abuse Resources for Teens

As any parent knows, it can be difficult to communicate with your teen, especially when it comes to a sensitive topic like dating violence. Perhaps you’re not quite sure what to say, or maybe your teen doesn’t seem to want to talk.

Whatever stage you and your teen are going through in discussing and learning about dating violence — whether you want to teach them about healthy relationships for the future, or you’re concerned with a relationship they are currently in and want to give them advice — there are plenty of resources that can be really helpful.

From phone numbers and victim services centers, to online pamphlets and sites, we’ve put together a list of some of the best resources for teens. Share them with your teen and look at them together, or simply pass them on.

Who to Call

• loveisrespect: Call 1-866-331-9474, chat at loveisrespect.org or text “loveis” to 22522, any time, 24/7/365.

What to Read

• Learn about the Types of Abuse from loveisrespect
• Use the Power and Control Wheel for a more in depth look at the different types of abuse
• Learn about creating support systems of people who can help
• Read “Should We Break Up?” about figuring out next steps
• Check out this info on how to help others who may be in an abusive relationship

Online Interactive

• Does your teen have a friend who needs help in a relationship? Direct them to this loveisrespect “How would you help?” interactive quiz or take it together
• Take the loveisrespect Healthy Relationships Quiz to see if you’re currently in a healthy relationship
• Safety Planning Resources from loveisrespect: Interactive guide or print-out versions for college students or high school students
• Is your relationship really becoming abuse free? Take this quiz from loveisrespect to find out

Spread the Knowledge

• Printable handouts from loveisrespect, as well as posters, palm cards and more

Other Organizations

• Boys Town: Boys Town works to reunite children with their families when possible, or give them the skills and foundation needed to build a life on their own. They strive to help every child, “from those who may simply be struggling or in doubt to those who are in need of the most severe behavioral care”
• National Runaway Safeline: If you’re thinking about leaving home, or you have and are seeking information and help, the Safeline is one of the top resources for runaway, homeless, and at-risk youth and their families
• Trevor Project: The national crisis lifeline for LGBTQ teens and adults. They have suicide prevention services for youth in digital spaces, counseling via IM, and a large online social network for LGBTQ people
• 1 is 2 many: Launched by Vice President Joe Biden, this initiative uses technology and outreach to spread knowledge about dating violence and sexual assault among teens and young adults
• TeenWire: In addition to information about healthy and unhealthy relationships, TeenWire has resources about everything from body image to sexual health
• ShowMeLoveDC: A campaign to raise awareness about healthy relationships and provide resources for LGBTQ survivors of intimate partner violence
• Northwest Network: A network founded by and for LGBTQ survivors, focused on safety, support, and empowerment
• The Anti-Violence Project: AVP offers free and confidential assistance to thousands of LGBTQ people each year in all five boroughs of New York City
• A Thin Line: An MTV campaign created to empower teens to identify, respond to, and stop the spread of digital abuse