Teens are in a vulnerable developmental stage. Their brains are still maturing, and they may not fully recognize grooming, coercion, or assault for what it is.
More than 66% of sexual assault and rape victims are between ages 12 and 17. Among women who experienced rape, nearly 40% were first raped before age 18. For men, nearly 28% were first raped before age 10.³
Signs To Watch For
Teens may show warning signs that can be mistaken for “normal” adolescent struggles. Trust your instincts if something doesn’t seem right.
Look for:
- Unusual weight changes or unhealthy eating habits
- Bruises or unexplained physical injuries
- Genital infections or STIs
- Persistent sadness, anxiety, or loss of interest in activities
- Self-harming behaviors or suicidal ideation
- Decline in grades or personal hygiene
- Increased use of drugs or alcohol
Signs of an Abusive Teen Relationship
Teens may not realize a partner’s behavior is abusive. Coercion, manipulation, and forced sexual activity can happen in dating relationships. Visit Love is Respect to learn more.
Watch for behaviors like:
- Pressuring or forcing sexual activity
- Refusing to use contraception
- Controlling or isolating behavior
- Using substances to impair judgment
- Threats or physical harm
How to Support a Teen
Keeping lines of communication open is crucial:
- “Did something upsetting happen on your date?”
- “Relationships can be confusing—want to talk about anything?”
- “If someone hurts you, it’s not your fault. I’m here to listen.”
Sources
¹ Cantor, D., Fisher, B., Chibnall, S., Townsend, R., et al. (2020). AAU Campus Climate Survey on Sexual Assault and Sexual Misconduct
² U.S. DOJ, Bureau of Justice Statistics, National Crime Victimization Survey (2010–2016)
³ U.S. DOJ, Sexual Assault of Young Children as Reported to Law Enforcement (2000); Sex Offenses and Offenders (1997)
⁴ U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Child Maltreatment 2017
⁵ U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, Sexual Assault of Young Children as Reported to Law Enforcement (2000)
⁶ Black, M.C. et al. The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey: 2010 Summary Report, CDC (2011)