Avoiding a Bad Relationship

Communicate clearly

• Make clear to your partner how you expect to be treated. Let your
• partner know you will not tolerate any kind of abuse.
• Be honest in your communications.

Avoid dangerous situations

• Avoid places where you'll be alone until you get to know your partner.
• Double-date or hang-out together with other friends.
• Let someone know what your plans are for the evening.

Be in control

• Don't be helpless or "in debt" to a dating partner.
• Have your own way to get home.
• Pay your own way.
• Don't use alcohol or other drugs. These substances can severely hamper
• your ability to think clearly and act quickly if you find yourself in a
• dangerous situation.

Be careful - Think twice about going out with someone who:

• often puts down men or women with comments such as "Girls are so
• stupid" or "Guys are such jerks."
• uses alcohol or other drugs
• enjoys pornography and looking at "dirty pictures."
• wants to be in control of where you go, what you do, who you see, etc.
• gets angry and aggressive very easily.
• uses physical force (squeezing, pushing, etc.).
• drives recklessly especially with you in the car

[Back to top]

[Back to Just For Teens Index]