What steps should a teacher take if they suspect TDV but the student has not disclosed?

• A. Confront the student aggressively about the issues
• B. Build trust, provide information about supports, offer counseling referrals, monitor safety, and follow school protocol for concerns
• C. Wait until disclosure
• D. Share details with the entire class

Answer: (B)

When you suspect teen dating violence but the student hasn’t disclosed, your approach should center on safety, trust, and access to support rather than forcing disclosure. Start with a private, nonjudgmental conversation that shows you care about their well-being. Use open-ended, nonaccusatory language and validate their feelings, making it clear you’re there to help if they want support.

Provide clear information about available supports: the school counselor or social worker, trusted adults at school, and community resources such as hotlines or counseling services. Let the student know that help is available and that seeking support is their choice. Offer to connect them with counseling or resources and explain any limits of confidentiality in a calm, straightforward way.

Monitor safety by being attentive to any warning signs that could indicate ongoing risk and by helping the student consider a safety plan. Document relevant observations in a factual, timely manner and follow your school’s protocol for concerns, which typically involves informing designated personnel and coordinating with them to determine appropriate next steps.

Follow the established procedures so the student’s situation is addressed through proper channels, ensuring that all actions prioritize the student’s safety and privacy.

Avoid pressuring the student to disclose, confronting them aggressively, or sharing personal details with others or with the whole class. Those approaches can undermine trust, privacy, and safety and may deter the student from seeking help.