Before teenagers have figured out how to deal with romantic relationships, they are forming committed bonds.

Teenagers often confuse jealousy, possessiveness and controlling behavior with love.

Who a teen is dating can affect his or her standing in the hierarchy of popularity.

Many teens believe that no one else really understands his or her partner, and he or she is the only one who can help make things “right.”

Abusive dating partners are usually romantic and charming at first. They may sweep their partners off their feet with lots of attention and intense bonding.

Because of their limited frame of reference, teens may not recognize abuse when it occurs.

Teenagers may be uncomfortable talking to their parents because they are embarrassed or because they are afraid of losing newly acquired privileges and independence.

Adults are often guilty of not taking adolescent relationships seriously or, conversely, of overreacting to them.

Teens take their relationships seriously and feel very deeply about them. They cannot “just break up” with their dating partners.

Teens may not confide in their peers because the abusive partner is well liked by their mutual friends. The victim may not be believed, or may face social ostracism, if he or she speaks up about the abusive partner.