In a recent survey, 1 in 10 teens reported being hit or otherwise hurt on purpose by someone they were dating at least once in the year before the survey.

And nearly half of all teens in relationships say they know friends who have been verbally abused.

Public health officials say there are signs parents should look for which could indicate kids are being abused by their boyfriends or girlfriends.

Dating violence often starts with teasing and name calling. These behaviors are often thought to be a "normal" part of a relationship, but they can set the stage for more serious violence like physical assault and rape.

Be on the lookout for controlling behavior, attempts to isolate or limit contact with anyone else, emotional changes and the need for constant communication between your son or daughter and their boyfriend or girlfirend.

If you are concerned the most important thik you can do is to keep talking to your son or daughter and let them know they can talk to you about anything, including dating violence.

Parents and teens can call the National Dating Abuse Helpline at 1-866-331-9474, or visit www.loveisrespect.org.

In Idaho, parents and teens also can call the Idaho Teen Dating Abuse and Sexual Assault Legal Helpline at 1-855-256-1970 for non-emergency legal help.