Relationships.

With parents... It is a common belief in our society that parents and teens have a hard time getting along. The good news is, most of you continue to have warm, close relationships with your parents. Part of being a teen is trying to become more independent. You're likely to reject your parents’ advice at times, because you want to make more of the decisions that affect you. Your parents will sometimes mistake this for rebelliousness. It's ok to let them know you're not being rebellious or spiteful , that you just want more control over your life!

Although as a teen there may be more conflict between you and your parents, you need to remember that you can still rely on them.

With others... As you've probably noticed by now, most adults are still clueless when it comes to relationships! But, parents and adults can still be a good source for information because it's likely that they've had the same feelings that you're having. It doesn't mean that by talking to them you're obligated to react the same way they did!

You're the only one that knows or has an idea about what will work for you in a relationship. While compromise plays a part in any relationship there are things you have to make up your mind not to compromise on, like how you want to be treated physically and emotionally. Know the things that are absolutely unacceptable to you and make sure your partner knows them too.

1. Signs That a Friend Is Being Abused (By a parent or boyfriend or girlfriend)
In addition to the signs listed above, here are some signs of abuse to look for in a friend:

• unexplained bruises, broken bones, sprains, or marks
• excessive guilt or shame for no apparent reason
• secrecy or withdrawal from friends and family
• avoidance of school or social events with excuses that don't seem to make any sense

If you have a friend who is being abused, he or she needs your patience, love, and understanding. Your friend also needs you to encourage him or her to get help immediately from an adult, such as a parent or guidance counselor. Most of all, your friend needs you to listen to him or her without judging. It takes a lot of courage to admit that you have been abused; let your friend know that he or she has your full support.

Read more about Abusive relationships and how to help yourself or someone else here.

2. Date Rape. What is it and howe can you make sure it doesn't happen to you? Read Listen up! No Means NO! Information for teens about date rape. A pdf file outlining date rape.