Katy Area Therapist Weighs In on Teen Dating Violence: Warning Signs, Digital Abuse, and How to Support Teens at Risk
Teen dating violence (TDV) is an often-overlooked issue that affects millions of adolescents nationwide. Defined as physical, emotional, or psychological abuse within a dating relationship, TDV can have lasting consequences on a teen’s self-esteem, mental health, and future relationships. To shed light on this critical topic, Elizabeth Westbrook, LMSW, from Here Comes the Sun Counseling in Katy, shares her expertise on recognizing the warning signs, understanding digital abuse, and fostering a supportive environment for teens, especially as the nation observes Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of Teen Dating Violence
According to Westbrook, changes in a teen’s behavior may signal trouble. “Increased emotionality and withdrawing can be two early warning signs,” she explains. “If you overhear things like, ‘Who’s going to be there?’ or ‘You know I don’t like them,’ it might be time to pay closer attention to the dynamics of your child’s relationship.” While some boundary-setting is natural, controlling or manipulative behavior can quickly escalate into abuse. Other red flags include social isolation, a drop in academic performance, and a sudden preference for baggy clothing.
The Overlooked Impact of Emotional and Psychological Abuse
Physical violence often garners more attention, but emotional and psychological abuse can be just as damaging. Westbrook emphasizes that these forms of abuse are harder to recognize and are frequently dismissed. “Teens are still developing their sense of self and may internalize abusive behaviors as normal,” she says. “Coercion and manipulation can be subtle, often masked as boundary-setting or a way to ensure fidelity.” Parents should encourage open conversations about what constitutes a healthy relationship, helping their teens build awareness and confidence in setting boundaries.
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The Role of Social Media in Teen Dating Violence
Digital abuse has become increasingly prevalent, with studies showing that 50–75% of adolescents encounter online harassment or coercion in their relationships. Social media plays a significant role in this issue, facilitating controlling behaviors and sextortion. “My teen had social media and does not any longer,” Westbrook reveals. “Data consistently shows that delayed access to unregulated, private social media improves teens' self-worth. Platforms like Snapchat make it easy for coercion to occur and difficult for parents to track.” She advises parents to maintain open communication about social media use and set clear boundaries around digital interactions.
How Teen Dating Violence Affects Mental Health
The psychological impact of dating violence can be profound, leading to anxiety, depression, and even PTSD. Many survivors experience shame and self-blame, making it difficult for them to seek help. “I want to be very, VERY clear: it is never EVER the fault of the survivor that they endured emotional, physical, or sexual abuse,” Westbrook asserts. “Teens are often in over their heads before it’s too late because they want to prove they’re responsible enough to handle dating, but more often than not, they’re just not prepared.” Breaking free from an abusive mindset requires patience, professional support, and a strong support system from family and friends.
Prevention and Support: What Parents, Schools, and Communities Can Do
Education and early intervention are key to preventing teen dating violence. Westbrook encourages parents to start conversations about healthy relationships early. “Communicate early and often. In my home, we start with toddlers naming body parts correctly—using anatomically accurate nouns instead of euphemisms. It’s crucial for children to understand bodily autonomy so they can articulate their experiences accurately if needed.”
Elizabeth Westbrook, LMSW. (Source: Elizabeth Westbrook)She also highlights the importance of school and community involvement. Schools can help by providing students with safe reporting mechanisms and educating staff on recognizing the signs of abuse. Parents can collaborate with schools to ensure their child’s safety, whether by requesting a schedule change or arranging for an escort after school.
Creating a Safe Space for Teens
For teens to feel comfortable discussing their relationships, they need a judgment-free zone. Westbrook advises parents to “respond, don’t react.” She notes, “It can be difficult when you know your child is being emotionally, physically, or sexually abused—or that your child is the one treating others abusively. Asking questions instead of accusing can create opportunities for your teen to feel safe opening up.”
Resources and Moving Forward
For families in Katy and beyond, numerous resources are available to support teens experiencing dating violence. National hotlines, local counseling services, and school support systems provide crucial assistance. Some key resources include:
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Katy Christian Ministries (KCM) – Offers crisis intervention, counseling, and emergency shelter services for those affected by domestic and dating violence. Learn more at ktcm.org/crisiscenter.
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National Domestic Violence Hotline – A confidential, 24/7 resource at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text LOVEIS to 22522 for immediate assistance.
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Love Is Respect – A national resource specifically for teen dating violence, offering education, online chat support, and a helpline at 1-866-331-9474.
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The Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC) – Provides crisis intervention, emergency shelter, and supportive services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Fort Bend County. Learn more at fbwc.org.
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Westbrook stresses that healing from dating violence takes time, but with the right support, survivors can rebuild their self-worth and develop healthy relationship patterns in the future.
By fostering ongoing conversations about consent, emotional well-being, and relationship dynamics, families and communities can play a pivotal role in reducing teen dating violence and ensuring a safer future for the next generation.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
