When it comes to adolescent relationships, it can be difficult to tell if a young person is in an abusive or manipulative situation. While teens may seem happy with a partner, there are signs of trouble that a parent or guardian should be aware of. If you suspect your teen is in a manipulative relationship, reaching out for help is essential. Seeking professional counseling can help adolescents have healthier relationships and create a better future.
If you’re concerned about your teen being in a manipulative relationship, contact Imagine Spokane for professional guidance and support. Our experienced counselors provide teen relationship counseling geared towards helping adolescents navigate unhealthy relationships and build strong foundations for healthy romantic partnerships in the future. Call 888.384.3143 today to learn more about how we can help.
5 Controlling Relationship Signs
As parents, we always want our children to find happiness and love, but sometimes things don’t go as we hope. Seeing your child in a manipulative relationship can be disturbing, and recognizing that they are in such a situation can prompt you to take steps to help them get out of it. The following are common indicators that your teen might be in a manipulative relationship.
They Act Differently
The first sign that your teenager is in a manipulative relationship is a change in their behavior. You should notice if they don’t act like their usual self or if their behavior has changed drastically. It could be that they are being manipulated, which can affect their mental health. Teens in a manipulative relationship are usually anxious, depressed, or both. If you notice such changes in your teen, you must talk to them.
They Become Isolated from Friends and Family
Another sign that your teenager is in a manipulative relationship is their social life. Have they isolated themselves from their friends and family? Do they always want to spend time with the person they’re dating? An abusive partner will ensure that their victim is isolated from other people so they can manipulate them without interference. If you notice this, try to encourage your teen to spend time with other people and to seek support from friends and family.
They Constantly Apologize
If your teenager constantly apologizes for things, even if they haven’t done anything wrong, it’s a sign that they are in a manipulative relationship. This is because manipulative partners make their victims feel as though they are always in the wrong. This can make your teenager feel guilty even when they have done nothing wrong. Talk to your teen and let them understand that the situation is not their fault and that it is manipulation.
They Spend Money on Suspicious Things
If your teenager starts spending money on suspicious things and can’t account for their actions, it’s a sign that they are in a manipulative relationship. This is because most manipulators will try to influence their victims in various ways, including financially. They may convince your teen to spend money on things they don’t need or can’t afford.
They Make Excuses
If you notice that your teenager is constantly making excuses to justify their partner’s behavior, it’s a sign that they are in a manipulative relationship. This is because, to maintain control, abusive partners usually try to manipulate the way their victims think or feel about themselves. Your teenager must understand that making excuses or justifying their partner’s behavior will not help them. Instead, it will perpetuate the abuse.
Being in a manipulative relationship is tough, but recognizing the signs that your teenager is in one can save them a great deal of emotional harm. Knowing controlling relationship signs can help you take the necessary steps to get your child out of such a relationship. Remember that it may be difficult for your teenager to leave the situation, so offering non-judgmental advice and support can go a long way in helping them decide to take action.
Seek Teen Relationship Counseling at Imagine Spokane
If you notice signs of a manipulative teenage relationship, contact Imagine Spokane for guidance and support. Our team provides counseling services specifically tailored to adolescents aged 12-17 to help them navigate complex emotions and develop healthy communication skills. We understand our young clients’ unique pressures and provide an environment where they feel safe expressing themselves without fear of judgment. Our counseling sessions focus on building a positive self-image while equipping teens with the skills to make better relationship decisions. Call 888.384.3143 or complete our contact form to learn more about how we can promote your child’s overall well-being.