Teen Dating Violence

At The Second Step, we are dedicated to helping young people navigate the complexities of dating and the pain of abuse. Whether you are identifying relationship “red flags,” establishing personal boundaries, or seeking safety planning, we provide the tools to help you stay safe and heard. We believe everyone deserves a relationship built on equality, honesty, and respect, and we are here to guide teens toward reclaiming peace and independence.

Green Flags (Healthy Signs)
  • Healthy conflict
  • Honesty/ trust
  • Comfortable pace
  • Independence
  • Equality
  • Taking responsibility
Red Flags (Warning Signs)
  • Calling/ texting constantly
  • Isolation/ control
  • Criticizes or puts you down
  • Ignores your boundaries
  • Excessively jealous
  • Gaslighting

Types of Abuse

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7

I have boundaries...

Physical

  • personal space
  • your body
  • privacy

Sexual

  • giving consent
  • sharing details
  • setting limits

Financial

  • giving or lending to others
  • setting spending limits for ourselves

Verbal

  • how others talk to us
  • how we speak to others

Emotional

  • your thoughts
  • your feelings
  • your values
  • your opinions

Internal

  • how you’re able to regulate your thoughts and feelings; limits on the energy we give to others vs. ourselves

How to help someone you know:

  • Check in at a safe time and place
  • Be patient and listen
  • Believe them
  • Remind them it isn't their fault
  • Respect their choices
  • Feel like you need to be an expert or "fix it"
  • Give ultimatums
  • Mediate between them and the person hurting them
  • Provide counseling or advice
  • Ask investigative or "why" questions

When in doubt – reach out!
If you feel overwhelmed or confused about how to help someone, give us a call. We can help guide you.

Get Support: Teen Dating Violence Resources