Teen dating violence is a growing problem a local school district is working to combat by getting parents involved.
The Canyon Independent School District says parents need to know to help prevent their child from becoming a victim.
Nearly 90% of local teenagers admit to being a victim or know a victim of dating violence, according to Family Support Services of Amarillo.
School Counselor Robin Terry says, "Parents have got to get into the world of their teenager. They have to be aware of what's going on. It's not just where they are but how are they acting at home, are they acting different, who are they running with."
And counselors tell me relationship abuse usually starts at school with a subtle push, verbal put down, or a nasty text message.
Intervention Specialist Randy Coetzee says, "We've witnessed and had reports of those types of behaviors. If you think about it, kids are at school eight hours a day sometimes longer. In the hallways in the lunchroom even in the parking lots they have great opportunities to interact without supervision. "
Terry says dating violence can also escalate quickly. "They get in an argument they kind of yell at each other but them it can escalate. So I think it can ago from 0 to 5 real quick and 5 to 10 real quick."
While each student will show different signs and symptoms there are some red flags. Constant contact with a significant other, whether its text messaging, calling, or unannounced visits.
Controlling how a person acts, what they wear, and where they go. And threatening to harm themselves or the other person.
If you notice these signs you are urged to talk with your child immediately and if needed, seek assistance from these organizations.
RELATIONSHIP ABUSE RESOURCES
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Family Violence Centers and Organizations
http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/Help/family-violence/centers.html
Family Support Services of Amarillo, Inc.
(806) 342-2500
(800) 749-9026
Pampa
Tralee Crisis Center for Women, Inc.
(806) 669-1131
(806) 669-1788
Borger
Hutchinson County Crisis Center, Inc.
(806) 677-1701
(806) 273-2313
Texas School Safety Center
http://www.txssc.txstate.edu/txssc.htm
KNOW THE FED FLAGS OF RELATIONSHIP ABUSE
You may need to raise a red flag if you see or suspect that one person in a relationship...
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A member of the United States Air Force, Gaston Barnett has served his country around the world.