teens 4 change

One in three teens report that they have been a victim of dating violence and 30% of teens report they are worried for their physical safety in a relationship. Safe Relationships staff have prioritized the needs of teens in this area to create the next generation of adults who understand the significance of healthy relationships. Teens-4-Change is a social change/volunteer based group that works with teen volunteers who address social issues faced by teens such as dating violence, sexual assault, suicide, self image and healthy living. In addition to their individual education on these topics, members in turn educate their peers and families and are involved in organizing awareness and prevention events with other agencies to promote change within their community and their generation.

Creating leadership is another part of the Teens-4-Change organization. In the spring, Teens-4-Change sponsors an all day workshop entitled, P.L.A.Y. - Positive Learning About Yourself. The workshop is designed to empower young women to develop and maintain healthy minds, bodies and relationships. The workshop also includes core members on the process of planning, preparing, organizing and executing the event. Former Teens-4-Change members along with local experts facilitate individual workshop sessions.

Relationships during the teen and early adult years can be confusing as people are learning who they are independent from their family of origin. Anyone can be abused and anyone can be an abuser. It can happen to men and women, or in same-sex relationships.

Take this quiz

Does my Partner…
	Call/text frequently to find out what I’m doing, where I’m at or who I’m with?
	Tell me what to wear?
	Use put downs, insults, name calling?
	Follow me or show up uninvited or have others to do so?
	Expect everything to go his/her way all the time?
	Get into fights with others?
	Threaten me, my family or friends?
	Keep me from spending time with friends/family?
	Hit, kick, shove, punch, slap, strangle me?
	Force sex or physical affection when I say no?
	Refuse to use birth control or allow me to use birth control?
	Abuse drugs/alcohol and/or pressure me to do so?
	Threaten suicide if we break up?
	Act possessive or jealous; boss me around?
	Harass or threaten me using social networking sites?
	Intimidate or scare me?

Safety Planning
	Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.
	If you feel you are in danger or unsafe, trust “your gut”.
	Take threats seriously.
	Get to know your local domestic violence agency, school or campus program. They are available to give you information about options, services and what you can do to plan for safety.
	Think about safety at school, work, on campus or other social settings.
	Keep a journal of incidents including dates, times, locations and witnesses that have happened between you and the abuser.
	Tell somebody you trust about the abuse such as a friend, family member, roommate or other adult.

How to help someone you care about
	Give support and show concern by listening.
	Encourage your friend or family member to get help; have information ready to give to them.
	Allow loved ones to make their own decisions about what’s best.
	Avoid confronting the abuser which can be dangerous.

Things you can say
	I believe you.
	No one deserves to be abused.
	It’s not your fault.
	I’m concerned for your safety.
	It will only get worse without help.
	I’m here for you no matter what you decide.

For more information about becoming involved in Teens-4-Change or about our activities and events, contact us at (336) 722-8173.

Need someone to talk to about options, confidentially, day or night? Our 24 hour crisis line is always available, (336) 723-8125.