TEENS AND DIGITAL DATING ABUSE

Digital dating abuse is the use of technologies such as texting and social networking to bully, harass, stalk or intimidate a partner. Often this behavior is a form of verbal or emotional abuse perpetrated online. In a  healthy relationship, all communication is respectful whether in person, online or by phone. It is never okay for someone to do or say anything that makes you feel bad, lowers your self-esteem or manipulates you. You may be experiencing digital abuse if your partner:
● Tells you who you can or can’t be friends with on Facebook and other sites.
● Sends you negative, insulting or even threatening emails,
● Uses sites like Facebook, Twitter, foursquare and others to keep constant tabs on you.
● Puts you down in their status updates.
● Sends you unwanted, explicit pictures and/or demands you send some in return.
● Pressures you to send explicit video or sexts.
● Steals or insists on being given your passwords.
● Constantly texts you and makes you feel like you can’t be separated from your phone for fear that you will be punished.
● Looks through your phone frequently. Checks up on your pictures, texts and outgoing calls.
● Tags you unkindly in pictures on Instagram, Tumblr, etc.
● Uses any kind of technology (such as spyware or GPS in a car or on a phone) to monitor you
 
You never deserve to be mistreated, online or off. If you’re experiencing digital dating abuse, we encourage you to talk with a parent, teacher, clergy or other adult who can help you make good decisions on how to handle your situation.
 
If you or someone you know is being abused, seek help today. In an emergency, please dial 911. For all other help, please call: Illinois Statewide Domestic Violence Helpline 877-TO END DV (877-863-6338), 877-863-6339 TTY or call WINGS 24-hour hotline 847-221-5680.
 
Sources:  www.loveisrespect.org; www.breakthecycle.org
Brought to you by St. Hubert Domestic Violence Outreach Ministry