How to Avoid Dating Violence
Dating violence has become a growing concern when approaching relationships. Many times warning signs show in a person's character ahead of time. It’s important to take time and get to know the person you are interested in before things grow serious to avoid dating violence. Seek outside help from multiple places if you are currently involved with someone who is showing signs of violence.
- Learn about the warning signs in a person’s behavior to avoid potential dating violence. Some behavior warning signs can include jealousy, name calling and putting someone down. Avoid dating someone that portrays any of these behavior types.
- Get to know the person you are dating. Ask the person you are interested in questions about their family, friends, education and employment. It’s important to take time to learn all you can about a person before getting serious to avoid dating violence.
- Go out on a double date instead of alone if you feel uncomfortable or not sure about a person. Arrange a double date with friends or family. This will allow some of the people closest to you meet them and give you their perspective. Listen to any warning signs your friends may have about the person you are interested in to avoid dating violence.
- Meet up with the person you are dating instead of them picking you up. Drive yourself to the location and proceed with the date. This will allow you to have your own transportation home if needed. Always let people close to you know when and where you are going to avoid dating violence.
- Avoid drinking alcohol while on a date with someone new because it can affect your judgment. Select non-alcoholic drinks and stay alert of their attitude changes.
- Leave the date if you begin to feel uncomfortable or threatened. Call someone you know and let them know immediately what happened. Ask them to follow you home or pick you up if needed.
- Get outside help immediately if you are currently dating someone who may be violent. Contact friends or family members closest to you for assistance. It is important to get out of any situation that shows potential signs of abuse no matter how new or old the relationship may be.
- Consider a change in living arrangements. Contact a local women’s shelter or abuse hotline for help if you feel scared to leave a potentially abusive relationship.
- Contact the police if you feel threatened by a person and feel things could get out of control. Ask the police to be present if you decide to change living arrangements.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)