Listen without giving advice, unless it is asked for. Believe what he or she tells you.
Tell the victim they deserve respect.
Acknowledge your friend's confused feelings. Don't tell them how they should feel. Recognize that it is still possible to love someone who hurts you.
Don't make victim-blaming statements like "You're stupid to stay with him" or "Why do you let her treat you like this?"
Don't pressure your friend to break up with his or her partner and don't put the partner down. This may drive your friend away from you when s/he needs you most.
Offer to help him/her find a counselor, teacher or parent s/he can trust. Offer to go with him/her to speak with them.
Don't ever place conditions on your support. Let your friend know you will support him/her no matter what his/her decisions are.
Encourage the victim to speak up for themselves. Remind them, "It's not your fault."
Seek advice/training from a counselor, adult or an organization that deals with teen dating violence.
Find or form support groups for teens - with the guidance of an adult who is knowledgeable on the issue.
Make yourself available at all times.
Help Yourself
Acknowledge there is a problem. Seek out a friend, parent, or counselor or contact an organization trained to help teens with abusive relationships.
