Relationship Red Flags: What Every Teen Girl (and Her Parents) Should Know

Why We Need to Talk About This

At The Bemoore Foundation, one of the topics that often surfaces in our workshops and coaching sessions is relationships. Not just romantic ones, but friendships too. But today we want to talk specifically about romantic relationships and what can go wrong before we even realise it.

For teenage girls, the world of dating can feel exciting, overwhelming and confusing all at once. For parents, it can be equally hard to know when to step in, what to say, and how to help. That’s why understanding the red flags in relationships matters.

What Is a Red Flag?

A red flag is a warning sign. It tells us something might not be right. In relationships, red flags are signs of unhealthy or controlling behaviours that could grow into something more serious over time. They don’t always show up as big, obvious problems right away. Sometimes they’re subtle – but they still matter.

Our Relationship Red Flags worksheet (which you can download or print) is a practical way to start these conversations. It’s designed to be interactive and thought-provoking, and it’s something teens and parents can look at together.

Common Red Flags to Watch Out For

Here are just some of the relationship red flags that young people should be aware of:

• Getting really jealous when you talk to other people
• Pressuring you not to listen to your parents or trusted adults
• Calling and texting all the time to check up on you
• Making you feel bad about yourself
• Getting angry if you don’t respond immediately
• Wanting to know where you are and what you’re doing at all times
• Trying to control who you spend time with

These behaviours might start out small, but they can grow into patterns of control or emotional harm.

What Healthy Relationships Look Like

It’s just as important to recognise green flags – the signs of healthy, respectful relationships. These include:

• Encouraging you to do things that make you happy
• Respecting your boundaries, even if they don’t like them
• Listening when you say “no” or “I’m not comfortable with that”
• Trusting you and not getting jealous often
• Being willing to talk and work through problems together

Teenagers deserve relationships that make them feel safe, respected, and valued.

What to Do If You Spot a Red Flag

If you’re a young person reading this and some of these red flags feel familiar, the most important thing to know is: you are not overreacting. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

Talk to someone you trust – a parent, a teacher, a coach, or reach out to us at The Foundation. We’re here to help, not judge.

If you’re a parent and you’re noticing changes in your child’s behaviour, mood, or social life, it might be time to open up a gentle conversation. Try asking open-ended questions and be prepared to listen without jumping straight into advice or criticism.

How The Foundation Helps

Our Roaring4Life programme is built around helping young women aged 11-18 understand themselves, their emotions, and their relationships. We don’t just talk about red flags – we talk about self-esteem, confidence, setting boundaries and knowing your worth.

We create safe spaces to explore real-life situations and give young people tools they can carry forward into future friendships and relationships.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve Respect

Every girl deserves to feel safe, respected and heard in her relationships. Spotting red flags early isn’t about being dramatic – it’s about protecting your wellbeing and learning what a healthy connection really looks like.

And for parents, it’s about keeping the lines of communication open and reminding your teen: they can always come to you, no matter what.

If you want to know more or you’re worried about a young person, you can always get in touch with us.

Contact us at: amoore@bemoore.uk