By Arezoo Shahbazi Roa, Prevention & Community Education Director
In today’s digital landscape, where relationships often unfold through screens, a hidden danger lurks beneath the surface: digital coercion. Imagine being in a relationship where your partner monitors your every move online, twists your words in texts, or threatens to expose your private moments. This is not just a plot from a thriller; it’s a harsh reality for many teens facing dating violence. Digital coercion, a manipulative use of technology to control a partner, has emerged as an issue that requires our urgent attention. Understanding this form of abuse is important to protecting young people from engaging in unhealthy and abusive relationships.
Imagine a relationship where one partner constantly checks the other’s social media accounts, demanding passwords and monitoring interactions. Another alarming form of digital coercion is “sextortion,” where someone threatens to share intimate photos unless their demands are met. This can lead to feelings of helplessness and fear, further isolating the victim from friends and family. Recognizing the signs early on can prevent things from escalating quickly. When we consider the impact on teens, many experience emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and often feeling trapped in their relationships. Trust issues can arise, making it hard to connect with others later or know who to feel safe to go to for help.
So, what can you do if you or someone you know is facing this situation? First and foremost, it’s important to talk to someone you trust, whether that’s a friend, family member, or trusted adult. Setting boundaries about what is acceptable in a relationship is a great start. If you’re receiving unwanted attention or threats, documenting everything can be helpful for future discussions or when seeking help. Adjusting privacy settings on social media and using technology safely can also make a difference. If you find yourself in a situation where you feel unsafe, consider seeking professional help. Counseling can provide a safe space to explore your feelings and regain control over your life.
Breaking free from digital coercion is not just about escaping an unhealthy relationship; it’s about reclaiming your autonomy and building a future rooted in respect and trust. Remember, you are not alone; reaching out for help is a strong and important step.
Help us shine a light for Teen Dating Violence Awareness & Prevention Month this month. To learn more about how to get involved and bring awareness visit www.humanoptions.org/LSH2025.
At Human Options, we are dedicated 24/7 to supporting survivors of relationship violence. Know that you are not alone. You are worthy of healthy, safe love. For more information call our hotline at 877-854-3594 or visit humanoptions.org.
