Teen Dating Guidelines and Safety:
- Apr 16, 2024
- 2 min read
For Parents:
Curfew: Set and enforce a curfew to establish boundaries and ensure your teen has a set time for dates to end.
Establish Ground Rules: Communicate expectations like not being allowed at a partner's home unless parents are present, and inform parents if plans change.
Meet Your Child's Date: Meeting the date provides insight into your teen's social circle and can act as a safety net, especially with online dates.
Be the Escape Plan: Offer to pick them up without questions if they feel uncomfortable or are in a risky situation. Consider a code word or text for urgent situations.
Know Where They Are: Always know where your teen is going, with whom, and what they plan to do. Use tech like Life 360 or Find My iPhone as a backup.
Revisit Difficult Topics: Discuss safe dating, consent, risks associated with sexual assault, and teen dating violence regularly.
Follow Up: Discuss the date after it ends, listen to your teen's experience, and offer support without prying.
For Teens:
Keep Parents Informed: Communicate openly about plans, whereabouts, and who they are with.
Consider Group Dates: Initially opt for group dates to ensure safety and reduce pressure.
Meet in Public Places: Choose public venues like restaurants or coffee shops for dates to minimize risks.
Talk About Consent: Discuss the importance of mutual consent in any relationship.
Avoid Sexting: Educate teens about the risks and legal implications of sharing explicit photos.
Manage Your Drinks: Always get and keep track of their own drinks to prevent drugging risks.
Reach Out for Help: Encourage teens to call for help anytime they feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
Special Challenges and Considerations:
Recognize Dating Abuse: Know the signs of teen dating abuse such as extreme jealousy, possessiveness, and control issues.
Online Dating Apps: Discuss risks like catfishing and scams associated with online dating apps. Consider chaperoning initial meetings from online dates.
Accepting Your Teen's Partner: If you don't approve of your teen's partner for non-dangerous reasons, try to accept their choice and get to know the partner better.
Overall:
Teen dating has changed with social media and online apps, introducing new risks and safety measures. By establishing open communication, setting guidelines, and being aware of potential challenges, both parents and teens can navigate the dating world more safely and confidently.
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