TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Consent matters.
That was the message at the heart of the Tinker Air Force Base Youth Center and Family Advocacy’s educational event held Feb. 19 in recognition of Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month.
Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month has been observed nationally for the past decade and this year’s theme, “Action Into Outrage,” calls on parents and teens to be aware of the signs of dating abuse and how to stop it.
The event split parents and teens into two groups. Mary Phillips from Tinker Family Advocacy spoke with teens about relationship abuse and the acronym R.E.S.T.--respect, equality, safety and trust-- and how it relates to relationships.YWCA-OKC Director of Prevention Education Rachele Eskridge spoke with parents about teen relationship abuse and the red flags to look for, how to open dialogue with their teens about dating violence and what to do if their children find themselves in an unsafe dating situation.
Prevention Education Advocate for the Women’s Research Center in Norman, Emily Nicholls, was also on hand to speak with pre-teens about boundaries.
“Abuse can happen in all relationships,” Eskridge said. “As parents we can use normal, everyday things to teach consent.”
Eskridge shared the FRIES of consent as a simple way to explain good consent to teens. The F meaning freely given, R meaning reversible, I meaning informed, E meaning enthusiastic and S meaning specific.
“One of the best things you can do is model that behavior,” Eskridge said. “Boundaries and consent are a big topic.”
Eskridge also offered 10 tips in opening conversations about healthy relationships with teens. She said it’s important to encourage open, honest and thoughtful reflection; to be sensitive and firm; to understand teen development; understand the pressure and the risks teens face; take a clear stand; make the most of teachable moments; discuss how to stand up for friends; accentuate the positive; be an active participant in your teen’s life; and be prepared to make mistakes.
“If you suspect teen dating violence, take it seriously,” Eskridge said.
The Women’s Resource Center’s 24/7 domestic violence hotline can be reached at 405-701-5540.