by April Boettcher

Created on: October 23, 2009   Last Updated: October 24, 2009

Being a parent of a teen is not easy. Teenagers are going through so many emotional and physical changes that sometimes it is hard to talk to them. Many will experience their first taste of freedom, relationship, and first kiss. These experiences can be some of the greatest or some of the hardest in their young lives and as a parent you have to be there to help them out when the problems are too large for them to handle themselves. One of the many problems facing teenagers today is being involved in an abusive relationship. No one wants to believe that their child could be caught up in an abusive relationship. Parents always want to believe that it happens to someone else's child, not theirs. But abusive relationships are more common than most think. There are certain themes or traits that are common in abusive relationships. Not all traits will be in all relationships but these are the most common and once to watch out for.

1)Isolation. Most teens are involved in many different activities in school. Once your child is in this relationship, do they quit activities that they once loved? Do they stop going out with their friends or do their friends stop calling the house? This is a big warning sign. Teens usually want to be involved and want to socialize with their peers. If they get into a relationship and drop all other activities, this is an early red flag that means you may want to watch them closer. Does the suitor come to the house at all? Or does she always go out to see him? If he never comes to the house that's another warning sign. Is he trying to isolate her from her own parents? Does she not talk to you as much as she used to? If this starts to happen, talk to your child and see what is going on.

2)Appearance. Is it 80 degrees outside and they are still wearing long sleeve shirts and pants? Is she all of a sudden wearing tons of makeup and never takes it off? If you notice these odd changes in appearance she may be covering up bruises, scratches, and bite marks. When you ask them about it, do they give lame excuses like they feel down the stairs, slipped on ice, or got into a fight at school? Is your child that clumsy? Was it even icy out? Has your child ever gotten into a fight in school before? Did the principle call you about a fight? Watch and listen. They can only use these excuses for so long before they will start repeating them. Don't overlook this. Try to get a glimpse at her arms or face when she thinks she is alone. Some bruises are going

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