Healthy Relationships: Part 1

A healthy relationship can be defined as one where both parties feel respected, safe, and valued within the relationship. This term can be applied to friendships, as well as romantic relationships. A healthy relationship is the responsibility of both, or all, people involved, and it is made up of the following characteristics:

 

 

Honesty and Trust - Each person must have confidence, or a firm belief, in what the other person says

and does.

 

Emotional Respect - Each person should admire the other person for his or her abilities, qualities, and achievements.

 

Listening - Everyone needs to feel as though they are heard. Additionally, active listening allows us to learn about one another and our needs.

 

Freedom and Encouragement - Each person must feel as though he or she has the ability to pursue his or her interests and passions, without judgment but with support. (This only applies to interests and passions that would not be toxic to either person.)

 

Sharing Activities - Mutual activities or interests help to build the foundation for a strong relationship.

 

Kindness - Both people should work to be friendly and considerate.

 

Mutual Affection - Each person should be comfortable with expressing his or her feelings for the other person, and personal boundaries should also be respected.

 

Shared Decision-Making - Both parties should consider the consequences of their actions and how they affect the relationship and people involved when making choices.