For many teenagers, adolescence and first loves go hand in hand. These early romantic experiences are often fulfilling and contribute to teens’ well-being. However, far too many young adults unknowingly fall into and remain in emotionally unhealthy teenage relationships that damage their well-being. If this happens to your child, a teen relationship program can help them recover and move on. But what are the signs of an unhealthy teenage relationship? Call 888.291.2309 to speak with someone from the knowledgeable team at Imagine Fort Collins about toxic teenage relationships and how we can help your child navigate them.
What Defines Toxic Teenage Relationships?
Even in the best circumstances, adolescent relationships can fail to meet your teen’s expectations. The fallout of an unsuccessful relationship can be quite painful. Even so, your child can learn and grow from their experiences in positive ways.
The same cannot be said for toxic relationships. In one way or another, these relationships actively harm your teen’s well-being. That harm can take the form of aggression or implied violence. It can also take the form of actual violent behavior. In addition, your child may be exposed to emotional or psychological harm. In many cases, two or more of these problems are present simultaneously.
Some teenagers are more susceptible to toxic relationships than others. One factor that can significantly increase your child’s risks is the presence of mental illness. Involvement in an unhealthy relationship can also contribute to a range of mental health issues, including:
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions
In extreme cases, it can also lead to suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
The Telltale Signs of an Unhealthy Teenage Relationship
Spotting a toxic relationship between your child and another teen can be challenging. That’s true, in part, because these relationships don’t always look the same. Still, some of the signs of an unhealthy teenage relationship tend to recur over and over. Examples of these widespread issues include:
- Extreme possessiveness or jealousy on the part of either partner
- Frequent use of language that demeans, blames, or belittles
- The unexplained presence of bruises, cuts, or other injuries
- Denial of statements or situations that occurred—in essence, gaslighting
- Destabilizing fear of the other partner’s disapproval or rejection
You may also notice other problems. For example, either person in an unhealthy relationship may have little regard for the other’s thoughts or opinions. They may also feel constantly compelled to seek approval or permission from their partner.
Seeking Help for Physically or Emotionally Unhealthy Teenage Relationships
With help, your child can escape a physically or emotionally unhealthy teenage relationship. A well-designed teen relationship program:
- Provides a safe environment for discussing unhealthy relationships
- Shows your teen how to spot the signs that such a relationship is occurring
- Supports your child’s efforts to safely end their relationship
- Helps your teen restore a sense of physical and emotional wellness
Relationship counseling can also improve your child’s awareness of their vulnerabilities to toxic relationships. In addition, it can help them guard their mental welfare and develop healthier relationship behaviors in the future.
Find a Teen Relationship Program in Colorado at Imagine Fort Collins
Concerned that your child is involved in a toxic teenage relationship? Consult the professionals at Imagine Fort Collins. We’ll be happy to help you improve your understanding of this kind of relationship. We can also explain more about effective ways to spot one.
Every day, our staff of adolescent health experts helps teens affected by unhealthy relationships. No matter the details of your child’s situation, our customized counseling services provide crucial support. To learn more, contact Imagine Fort Collins today at 888.291.2309. You can also fill out our brief online message form.