Parent Quiz

Could your teen be a victim of dating violence?

The statistics are shocking. One in three teens knows someone who has been hit or beaten by a boyfriend. Dating abuse can happen to any teenager – and parents are often the last to know.

Could your teen be the victim of dating abuse? Answer yes or no to each of the questions below:

___1. Does your teen's boyfriend seem jealous or very possessive? Does he constantly call or text message her to check up on where she is?

___2. Has he cut her off from friends she used to enjoy?

___3. Does she have injuries she can't explain – black eyes, bruises? Or is she wearing clothing that could conceal bruises?

___4. Does he criticize her in front of friends or family? Have you seen him lose his temper?

___5. Are you uneasy or worried about her safety for any reason?

How did you do?

Even one yes answer may mean your teen is at risk of dating violence. Talk with your daughter and share your fears. Get in touch with the National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline at 1-866-331-9474 immediately.

Reprinted with permission from the April 2008 issue of Parents Still make the difference! (High School Edition) newsletter. Copyright ©2008 The Parent Institute, a division of NIS, Inc.