Many parents worry about screen time—but fewer realize that digital spaces are now relationship spaces. This means emotional harm, control, and abuse can happen through devices just as easily as in person. As SARCC continues our series on digital abuse during Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM), we share info that’s important for parents and caregivers with teens to know.
What Is Digital Abuse?
Digital abuse includes behaviors like:
- Monitoring a child’s messages or social media through coercion
- Threatening to share private photos or information
- Repeated harassment or humiliation online
- Using apps or location services to track someone without consent
It often overlaps with dating violence, bullying, or emotional abuse.
Warning Signs to Watch For
We know that parenting teens can be hard. The information is not always direct or clear for caregivers. Sometimes, you will need to read between the lines and watch for signs. Your teen may be experiencing digital abuse if they:
- Seem anxious when receiving notifications
- Suddenly change online behavior or socials accounts
- Withdraw from friends or activities
- Appear fearful about upsetting someone online
- Are secretive in a way that feels driven by stress, not privacy
How to Support Without Shutting Them Down
We often talk about the importance of starting with listening. Remember, take a deep breath and focus on staying calm and regulated as you approach tough topics. Keep these tips in mind to keep communication open:
- Stay calm—big reactions can shut communication down
- Listen more than you talk
- Avoid blaming or lecturing
- Focus on safety, not punishment
- Ask open questions like: “How does that make you feel?”
What Helps Most
Social Development Strategy reminds us that demonstrating care and offering opportunities to connect and learn keeps lines of communication open. Teens are more likely to seek help when they know:
- They won’t lose their phone automatically
- They’ll be believed
- Their autonomy will be respected
Your relationship is the strongest safety tool you have. You can reach us at 570-628-2965 or 717-272-5308. Schools all have Safe2Say lines where you can connect with help or request support. Parents and other caring adults who want to learn more can contact our Prevention Specialists to request Project SELFIE programs, Social Development Strategy trainings or Mandated Reporter training at no cost.
