Healthy Relationships

Unfortunately, sometimes healthy relationships can turn into unhealthy relationships. An unhealthy relationship is one where the participants do not have mutual respect and equity. Oftentimes, these relationships include dishonesty, anger, intimidation, and/or physical, emotional, or sexual abuse. In an unhealthy relationship, one person tries to control someone else. This can make the abused person feel trapped and frightened. Below is a list of warning signs that someone might be in an unhealthy, abusive relationship. Obviously there is more than just this list. Use your best judgment, and if you think someone might be in an unhealthy relationship, talk to a trusted adult.

• Extreme criticism or humiliation
• Isolation from friends and family
• Checking the other partner’s email or phone without permission
• Bruises, scars, or other signs of physical harm
• Pressuring or forcing someone to have sex
• Extreme jealousy or insecurity
• Guilt trips
• Threats of violence
• Mood swings and/or an extreme temper