Adolescence is filled with new experiences for the typical teenager. Quite often, these experiences include entering an intimate or romantic relationship. Relationships can be rewarding in many ways that support health and well-being. However, as a rule, an unhealthy relationship has the opposite effect. Teen relationship counseling can help your child break out of an unhealthy relationship. But how can you tell if this problem exists? Several signs may clue you into the unhealthy state of your teenager’s relationship.
What Is an Unhealthy Teenage Relationship?
A healthy romantic relationship can help improve your teen’s life in various ways. Known potential benefits include such things as:
- Enhanced feelings of comfort and security
- Lower levels of daily stress
- A sense of connection and belonging
- Support during life’s up and downs
In contrast, an unhealthy relationship can significantly harm your teenager. Some of this harm is mental and functions as a negative mirror of the advantages of a healthy relationship. However, the harm your child experiences may also be physical. Every day, thousands of U.S. teens are exposed to acts of intimate partner violence. An unhealthy relationship also increases your child’s risks for substance problems, depression, and suicidal thinking.
5 Common Signs of an Unhealthy Relationship
What are the telltale signs of an unhealthy teenage relationship? The answer to this question is different in all cases. However, specific indicators of damaging relationships are common. Some of the most common signs include the following:
- A partner who is controlling, overly jealous, or possessive
- Injuries that have no reasonable explanation
- Unexplained or rapid changes in your teen’s appearance or personality
- Withdrawal or isolation from friends and family
- A partner who constantly monitors or checks up on your teen
Some of the things you witness may be difficult to interpret. For example, It can be hard to spot the difference between possessiveness and genuine concern. However, signs of an unhealthy relationship tend to appear together. The more indicators you see, the more likely a severe problem exists.
How Do You Spot Manipulative, Controlling Relationships?
Controlling and manipulative behaviors are a hallmark of an unhealthy relationship. Extreme possessiveness is one of the signs of a manipulative, controlling relationship. The same holds true for a partner who constantly monitors your child. You may also notice other controlling relationship signs. Potential examples include the following:
- Purposeful undermining of your teen’s self-esteem
- Belittling of your child’s hopes, dreams, or goals
- Demands that your teen dress or behave a certain way
Your child may also feel a constant need to check in with their partner. In addition, they may seem unusually subdued or apologetic.
How Can Teen Relationship Counseling Help?
Teen relationship counseling gives your child a safe space to talk about the state of their relationship. Therapists specializing in this field have the expertise to identify even subtle controlling relationship signs. They also know how to help your teenager end an unhealthy relationship safely and securely. In addition, relationship counseling can help your child recover from the damaging effects of unhealthy partnerships.
Learn More About Unhealthy Teenage Relationships in Colorado at Imagine Fort Collins
Are you worried that your teen’s relationship may be unhealthy? Talk to the experts at Imagine Fort Collins. We’ll help clarify the potential signs of this kind of relationship. We can also help you determine if your concerns for your teen are warranted.
Imagine Fort Collins specializes in teen relationship counseling. Our customized services provide a safe, secure environment for your child. These services also offer the caring focus needed to counter the effects of unhealthy relationships. To learn more, just contact Imagine Fort Collins today at 888.291.2309. You can also connect with us through our online form.