You Can Avoid Dating Violence

Be Clear
Know that violence is not a normal part of relationships. You and those you love deserve better.

Communicate
Talk to your partner about what is and is not acceptable behavior. Don't assume you know how the other person feels or what he or she expects. Tell him or her that abuse will definitely end your relationship.

Be Realistic
You might believe that love will take care of it or that you'll be able to change the other person in time. This almost never happens.

Develop Positive Skills
Conflicts are bound to arise in any relationship. Don't wait until many things build up. Use compromise to resolve disagreements as they come up.

Take a Time Out
Whenever you feel your frustration rising to the point you might lose control, say out loud to yourself and your partner: "I'm beginning to feel angry. I need to take a time out."

Leave for 1 hour. Do something physical like running. Don't drink and drive. After 1 hour, go back and try to talk. If you feel angry again, take another time out.

Ask For Help
Couples involved in dating violence need to recognize it and seek professional help. There is no reason to think you can or should handle it alone.

Make Others Aware
Tell your friends and the other kids in your family what you know. Encourage your parents and teachers to help teens develop safe ways for dealing with intimacy, jealousy, and rejection.