Warning Signs and Risk Factors

Teens may be hesitant to talk to adults—even those they trust and love―about personal things like dating. Likewise, teens in violent dating relationships may feel embarrassed or afraid to talk about the issue with their friends or family members. For these reasons, adults—including educators—should watch for warning signs that something may be wrong in a teen's dating relationship.

These “red flags” should alert you to the possibility that a teen is a victim or is at risk of becoming a victim of dating violence:

• Depression
• Isolation from family and friends
• Loss of interest in activities and hobbies that were once enjoyable
• Making excuses for a dating partner's behavior
• Noticeable changes in eating or sleeping patterns, or alcohol or drug use
• Loss of self-confidence

These behaviors may indicate that a teen is a perpetrator or is at risk of becoming a perpetrator of dating violence:

• Threatening to hurt others in any way
• Ignoring or insulting a dating partner in public or private
• Constantly calling or texting to check up on a dating partner
• Damaging or destroying a dating partner's personal belongings
• Attempting to control what a dating partner wears

Learn more by visiting Warning Signs.

Risk factors that increase the likelihood of a teen becoming a perpetrator of violence or a victim of dating violence include:

• Believing that it is okay to use threats or violence to get their way or to express frustration or anger
• Problems managing one's anger or frustration
• Hanging out with violent peers
• Having low self-esteem and depression
• Not having parental supervision and support
• Witnessing violence at home or in the community

Learn more by visiting Risk Factors.