If your dating relationship is built on enjoying each other’s company, mutual respect, and trust, congratulations! If not, it’s time to find out if your relationship is healthy. Start by answering the questions on the page “Am I in an abusive relationship?”
The sad truth is that dating violence can occur in teen and college age relationships and, sometimes, it does.
Peer pressure can complicate ending an abusive relationship. Maybe others think you’re the perfect couple, or maybe you’re the volatile couple who always makes up. Friends may overlook the abuse, thinking it’s not serious or not wanting to stir up trouble. You may have made a million excuses for him. “If I did (fill in the blank), then he wouldn’t (fill in the blank). Then, there are the questions: If you break up, what will your friends say? What will you tell them? How will the break up affect your social status? These things may seem like they matter, but your safety is what truly matters.
Remember, if he hits you, he doesn’t love you.