Warning Signs:
- He frequently gives her “advice” about her choice of friends, hairstyle, clothes, or makeup.
- He calls her demeaning names, then laughs and tells her he was only kidding or that she’s too sensitive.
- She makes excuses for his poor behavior or says it’s her fault.
- He calls and texts her many times an hour, frequently between midnight and 5 a.m.
- Before she met her boyfriend, she had more friends than she does now.
- Her grades have declined in the past weeks or months.
- He is jealous if she looks at or speaks casually with another boy.
- Before she began dating him, she was more outgoing and involved with her family, school activities, and/or place of worship.
Tips for Confidence and Safety:
- Don’t get involved with a boy who doesn’t ask for your opinion or doesn’t respect you or your decisions.
- Listen to and trust your feelings and instincts.
- Stay away from boys who put you down, talk negatively about women, or drink and/or use drugs.
- As soon as you feel threatened, forget about being a “nice girl.”
- Take care of yourself. Don’t assume someone else will.
- If a boy tries to use physical force and you must defend yourself, do not hit him in the stomach, shoulders, or back. Target the kneecaps, heels, eyes, or crotch.
- Remain in control. Have an alternate transportation plan in case the date isn’t going as you would like.
Resources: National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE
