Parents can help prevent violence

With National Domestic Violence Awareness Month coming to close in a week, I felt compelled to share some ideas on how the average parent can impact violence in our country. Whether it is teen dating violence or bullying, it is important to realize we are not powerless in this situation. There are things we can do to help prevent this problem. I have listed below the top ways the average parent can have an impact.


Get Educated. Gather information about teen dating violence and bullying. Learn the details of how it affects those targeted by it. For instance, a target of abuse or bullying may lose self-confidence and self-esteem. They also may doubt their worth and their ability to make decisions. Understanding these facts will help you be supportive if the situation arises in your child’s life.

Talk to your kids. Keeping the lines of communication open with your children and teens is an important step to staying involved with their lives. Ask open-ended questions and use phrases such as “what would you like to see happen” and "what do you think?" As difficult or embarrassing as it might be, start important discussions with your children—about violence, smoking, drugs, sex, drinking and death. Don't let conversations with peers at school be your child’s only source of information.

Know when to intervene. If you recognize even small changes in your child’s behavior, it could be an early warning sign that something is troubling him or her. These changes could include withdrawal from friends, decline in grades, abruptly quitting sports or clubs your child had previously enjoyed, sleep disruptions, eating problems, lying, and physical complaints like stomachaches or headaches. And remember, you don't have to deal with problems alone—the most effective plans involve the parent, a school professional (like a guidance counselor), and others working together.

Stay involved in your child's school. This demonstrates that you believe education is important and that you want your children to do their best in school by being involved in their education. Get to know your child's teachers and help them get to know you and your child. Stay informed of school events, class projects, and homework assignments and volunteer to assist with school functions when possible.

Talk to the decision-makers. In Ohio, House Bill 19 was passed in 2010 requiring every school to provide education on dating violence to students in grades 7 through 12. If you have a child this age, talk to your principal or school board member to ensure that they are implementing this important legislation. In states where this legislation has not been passed, write a letter to your local representatives encouraging them to consider it.