5 Steps to Teaching Teens about Healthy Relationships

Many of us are parents, guardians, and mentors– stewards of today’s budding adults who are just tasting independence. These teenagers are eagerly looking ahead (and at us) as they sprint towards adulthood. If you're like me, there were a few lessons you wish you’d been taught before your relationships – and your wallet – were completely yours to control.

Disturbingly, a new study by Junior Achievement (JA) and The Allstate Foundation revealed nearly 1 in 3 U.S. teenagers aged 13-18 have experienced unhealthy relationship warning signs, even around money. For example, teens, regardless of gender, reported a significant other prevented them from going to school or work, or told them what they could or couldn’t purchase. 37% felt pressure to say "yes" when a romantic partner has asked them for money, and 29% reported a partner did not pay them back as expected.

The good news: more than half of teens said they trust parents or guardians the most to teach them about healthy shared finances with romantic partners or friends. So, let’s do it. Remember, relationships and money are relevant to youth sooner than we think, and violence can start early. Among those who were victims of violence, 26% of women and 15% of men experienced it before the age of 18. In case you’re wondering, no, it’s not too early to teach the youth you love about healthy relationships and finance. 

Some ways to help and tools to support you: 

It can be challenging to support someone experiencing financial abuse. If you don’t know what to say, visit The Allstate Foundation’s resources here. If you are experiencing abuse or want to help someone who is, call The National Domestic Violence Hotline’s 24-hour confidential service at 1-800-799-SAFE or contact them online.