Teen Dating Abuse FAQs

What is Emotional Abuse/Verbal Abuse?

Non-physical behaviors such as threats, insults, constant monitoring or “checking in,” excessive texting, humiliation, intimidation or isolation.

What is Stalking?

Being repeatedly watched, followed or harassed.

What is Financial Abuse?

Using money or access to accounts to exert power and control over a partner.

What is Physical Abuse?

Any intentional use of physical force with the intent to cause fear or injury, like hitting, shoving, biting, strangling, kicking or using a weapon.

What is Sexual Abuse?

Any action that impacts a person’s ability to control their sexual activity or the circumstances in which sexual activity occurs, including restricting access to birth control or condoms.

What is Digital Abuse?

The use of technology such as texting and social networking to bully, harass, stalk or intimidate a partner. Often this behavior is a form of verbal or emotional abuse perpetrated through technology.

For more information on Teen Dating Violence, check out this website: Parents’ Guide to Teen Dating Violence – Center for Relationship Abuse Awareness & Action (stoprelationshipabuse.org)

This website has great resources to pinpoint abusive teen relationships and identifying a teen abuser.