Let's Talk: Financial Abuse
As we close out Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, we want to address a critical aspect of healthy relationships that often goes unnoticed: financial abuse. Financial abuse occurs when one partner uses finances or resources to control or manipulate the other. This form of abuse may not leave visible scars, but its impact can be just as severe. Understanding the signs of financial abuse is crucial for teens trying to build healthy relationships or those who may find themselves in unhealthy ones.
Financial abuse can be displayed in several ways, including:
Controlling Allowance: One partner may give you an allowance or closely monitor your spending, limiting your independence.
Restricting Employment: Your partner might forbid you from working or reduce the hours you’re allowed to work, impacting your financial stability.
Interfering with Your Job: They may try to prevent you from going to work or even sabotage your employment by harassing you, your employer, or your colleagues.
Withholding Financial Support: Concealing or stealing your student financial aid check or other financial aid, which could leave you feeling vulnerable and helpless.
Conditional Giving: Receiving gifts or monetary support that comes with the expectation of something in return, creating an unhealthy dynamic.
Ifluencing Academic Decisions: They may pressure you to spend less time studying, skip classes, or even drop out, potentially affecting your future.
Altering Future Plans: Pressuring you to change your post-graduation plans, undermining your independence and goals.
It's vital to remember that financial abuse often coexists with emotional or physical abuse. If you find yourself in a situation where you cannot control your finances, or if your partner has taken money from your account, the thought of leaving can feel overwhelmingly frightening.
If you believe you are experiencing financial abuse, consider developing a safety plan that includes saving money in a separate or private location. Having financial independence, even in small amounts, can help to provide options when you are ready to make a change.
No one should have to navigate the difficulties of an unhealthy relationship alone. If you recognize the signs of financial abuse in your life or in the life of someone you know, we encourage you to reach out.
If you suspect that a teen you know is experiencing dating violence, it’s crucial to approach the situation with care and understanding. Here are some suggestions on how you can help:
Listen without judgment
Encourage open communication
Provide information
Help them create a safety plan
Be patient and respectful
Stay informed and aware
Your support can make a significant difference in a teens’ life. Offering understanding, information, and resources can encourage them to take action towards a healthier, safer future.
Throughout this month, we have shared various blogs as part of our “Let’s Talk” series that focus on different aspects of teen dating violence. We encourage you to explore these previous posts to gain more insight into healthy relationships, recognizing abuse, and reaching out to explore helpful resources.
You deserve to be in a relationship that is healthy, supportive, and free from control. Let’s work together towards a future where everyone feels safe in their relationships. If you believe you have been affected or need someone to talk to, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us
Call or text our 24-Hour Helpline: 216.391.4357 (HELP) or live chat.