Coping with Teen Dating - Tips for Parents
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Most parents have some fears of the day their
child will start dating. It is the big sign that they’re growing up and
are entering adulthood. But it’s important to remember that they do
still need you now and this is a normal development phase of the teen
years. There are also things you can do to make dating easier for both
of you.
Talk to your teen about what a good relationship is. While you may think
your teen already knows how to date, they probably don’t. Most of their
information comes from media that’s meant to be entertaining, not
realistic. Make sure your child understands what it means to be in a
loving and supporting relationship. Once you’re done talking, set a good
example in your relationship with your significant other.
Once your child starts dating, don’t stop talking to them about
relationships. Dating doesn’t always go as you expect; your child may
need someone to come to if they have a problem. You need to keep the
lines of communication open and also reiterate to them how they should
treat people and expect to be treated in a relationship.
When it comes time to meet your teen’s date, be kind and respectful.
While you may want to give a lecture on the rules; their date is not the
one you should be talking to. It is your teen’s responsibility to know
your rules and follow them. Also, while you may not like the person your
child is dating, be supportive. If you have taught them about a proper
relationship, then you should trust them to make their own decisions.
Only intervene if you think the relationship is dangerous for your
child.
As a parent, it is important for you to recognize the danger signs of an
unhealthy or abusive relationship. If you have a concern, talk honestly
with your child and ask other’s for help. Here are some clues that your
child’s relationship may be in trouble.
* Constant visits and phone calls
* Having to report where they are and what they’re doing
* Signs of physical abuse
* Signs of depression
It may be hard to see your child growing up and finding new people to
get close to, but if you take the right steps and teach them how
relationships are supposed to be, they’re much more likely to make the
right choices.
