NCJ Number
188409
Date Published
1998
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This booklet intends to help adults create an environment in which they can give their pre-teen boys and girls the skills with which to have positive, healthy relationships with peers and in dating situations; it is anticipated that the implementation of these skills will help to prevent relationship violence and break the cycle of abuse.
Abstract
The opening section of the booklet guides parents in the establishment of dialog with their children. This means being available to listen to children without criticizing them for having questions. Listen to what children say about what is important to them, and raise issues with them about important topics when occasions present themselves. Talk with the children on their level. Make sure that you understand what a child is saying or asking and then give an honest and correct answer. The second section of the booklet focuses on defining healthy and unhealthy relationships. A healthy relationship is defined as having "open and honest communication and an even playing field on which partners share power and control over decisions." An unhealthy relationship is "an imbalance in which one partner tries to exercise control and power over the other through threats, emotional abuse, and physical abuse." The booklet then outlines 10 tips for talking to kids about relationships, followed by a "Quick Quiz" for parents and kids. The booklet concludes with five brief "real life" stories that can be used as catalysts for discussions with children about various important issues.