Developing Healthy Relationships Choose Respect Developing Healthy Relationships

Foundation of Respect Talk openly, honestly and freely with each other There’s a give and take Support one another Take turns making decisions Talk things through with each other

Dating Abuse Facts 1 in 11 youth reports being a victim of physical dating abuse 1 in 4 youth reports verbal, physical, emotional or sexual abuse each year 1 in 5 youth reports being a victim of emotional abuse 1 in 5 HS girls has been physically or sexually abused by a dating partner

Dating Abuse Facts Victims of dating abuse are not only at risk for injury but they often engage in binge drinking, suicide attempts, physical fights and current sexual activity

What is Dating Violence? It’s not about love It is the Act or Threat of abuse - physical, sexual or emotional By one partner toward another

What is verbal abuse? The act of: Name calling Insulting Yelling and screaming Isolating Threatening violence Embarrassing Spreading negative rumors Stalking Making the other person feel guilty about spending time with friends and family

What is physical abuse? Unwanted physical contact: Scratching Punching Biting Pushing

What is sexual abuse? Unwanted sexual behavior Unwanted kissing or touching Date rape Forced sex Unwanted rough or violent sexual activity Not letting someone use birth control or other means of protection

What is digital abuse? Use of technology such as texting or social networking to: Bully, harass, stalk or intimidate Keeps tabs on social media Dictates who you can and cannot be friends with on Facebook Steals or insists on getting passwords Checks phone calls and texts Constant texting, Skype or Face time Pressures to send explicit pictures/videos Put downs in their own status updates

Warning Signs Extreme jealousy Constant put-downs Making false accusations Isolation from family and friends Explosive temper Threats Possessiveness Severe mood swings Physical contact

Hotlines Dating Violence Hotline: 1-866-331-9474 National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline: 1-866-331-9474 Laurel House Hotline: 1-800-642-3150 National Domestic Abuse Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE

Developing Healthy Relationships Anger Control Think before speaking and/or acting Problem Solving Identify solutions and outcomes Negotiation and Compromise Healthy relationships involve give and take

Developing Healthy Relationships Assertiveness Be clear and open about feelings and expectations Fighting Fair All relationships have disagreements It’s how couples deal with conflict that’s important

Developing Healthy Relationships Understanding Take time to understand what the partner may be feeling Listening Keep lines of communication open Being a Role Model Show respect for others