And, while your teen needs you more than ever to help them through this challenging time, they are also seeking independence and turning to peers.

Let him or her know when you truly care for someone you don’t hurt them or try to control them.If you are a victim of dating violence and are feeling lost and scared, contact your local Safe Place program or talk to someone who can protect you.Teachers, counselors, and other adults are there to help.This violence usually takes place face-to-face or electronically, such as via phone calls, text messages, or the Internet.Teen dating violence doesn’t always occur between individuals who are currently in a relationship; it can also happen between those who were once in a relationship.