Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – February marks the need for awareness and prevention of teen dating. Studies show 1 out 3 teenagers are in an abusive or violent dating relationship and may not even realize it.
Ron Homann, Director of Prevention and Outreach for Sojourn Shelter and Services in Springfield joined Will Stevenson on the WTAX Morning Newswatch to discuss some of the red flags and things parents can do.
Homann says some of the warning signs include “if you love me, you would do this”; demanding passwords for and checking phones, and anger about the victim hanging out with friends. The abuse can take on different forms, such as emotional, physical, digital, and sexual.
There are things parents can do, however if they believe their child is in such a relationship:
- Notice sudden changes in mood or behavior, such as becoming more withdrawn
- Notice if the victim’s behavior around the person they are dating
- If the parent believes something is “not right”, ask their teen open-ended questions such as “what’s going on with you?”
Members of the community are encouraged to take action by learning more, sharing resources, and starting conversations with the teens in their lives. Sojourn Services offers school presentations, parent education, free confidential support services.
More information is available at www.help4dv.org or call 217-726-5100.
