When you're concerned about a teenager.

Signs of Abuse:

  • Pattern of extreme anger or acting out
  • Over-sexualized behavior
  • Early onset of sexual activity
  • Depression, eating disorders, sleeping too much or too little, overeating or undereating
  • Partner is controlling and wants to know whereabouts
  • Partner is jealous or accuses teen of sleeping around

What to Say

  • I know how much you like him/her. It must be hard for you.
  • This sounds scary.
  • I’m worried about you.
  • Can I help? Is there anything I can do?
  • Nobody should push, shove or force you to have sex.
  • Love shouldn’t hurt like this.
  • I’m worried about you. I think this could be dangerous.
  • I’d like to be supportive. Can we talk about this again?
  • Let’s call someone who knows about this kind of thing.

Always speak to the person you are concerned about privately.

Never speak to anyone else without their permission.

Call your local program to practice what to say and when to say it.

Decide to be a consistent support person, even when they don’t do what you want them to do.

Where to go for more help.