Talking to young people

Did you know that a third of high school students report experiencing sexual or physical violence? (DOJ) 1 in 3 teens experience dating violence and most never report the abuse and often that abuse happens between the ages of 11-17. It’s natural want to shelter our children to protect them, but the best approach parents can take is to build protective factors which they will use throughout their life.  

One protective factor is teaching young people how to deal with and regulate emotions, also known as social emotional learning. Do they know how to communicate openly about their feeling and experiences? Do they have healthy approaches for handling anger and conflict? Do they know how to set boundaries and communicate them to others? Knowing how to manage their emotions and engage with others in safe, healthy ways will help reduce the likelihood of victimization and perpetration.  

Having accurate information is also important. Talk early and often about consent with young people. Teach them what consent means, talk about boundaries, and healthy relationships. Model what that looks like by respecting their choices and their boundaries.  

Children need to feel safe, loved, and accepted for who they are. If that doesn’t happen at home they’re going to find someone to meet that need. Be the safe place for your child. Be the example for what a healthy relationship looks like.  

Sending young people out into the world with the love, support, and information they need will help them to practice healthy relationship behaviors. They will also be in a much better position to recognize and avoid potentially unsafe relationships.

---

Harmony House

The mission of Harmony House is to provide shelter, advocacy and education to survivors of domestic violence and promote the principle that all individuals have the right to life free of abuse.

Since 1976, our emergency shelter and supportive outreach case management programs have offered individuals and their children the opportunity to rest and heal both emotionally and physically in a supportive environment. We believe you. You are not alone and we can help!

If you or someone you know is living in an abusive situation, call 417–864-SAFE (7233) to speak with an advocate.

Click here to learn more about Harmony House