Section topics: Safe Dating, Safety Plan, Sexual Harassment, Healthy Relationships
Love is… commitment, caring, honesty, sharing, respect and trust.
Love isn’t… jealousy, violence, obsession, dependency, fear or manipulation.
For so many young people, love and relationships are very confusing, which is why it is so easy to feel trapped in potentially dangerous situations or to have misunderstandings. But remember that it’s okay to be “picky”. Sometimes dating seems to be the cool thing to do. Sometimes friends make fun of you for rejecting the most popular student in school. Don’t feel that you have to date anyone who asks. If you choose to have a relationship, think about what you want to do and how far you want to go. If you only want to cuddle, say so. If you want to double date at first, say so. Your feelings and thoughts are important.
So, what is a healthy relationship?
- Your partner is a good listener. You feel free to say anything you want, and your thoughts are respected.
- Relationships are never perfect. Feeling angry, hurt and upset is normal, but feeling scared, humiliated or controlled isn't. You should feel loved and respected.
- You and your partner are equals.
- If you and your partner have a misunderstanding, both of you are able to work it out together. Communication is important.
What is a bad relationship?
- Your partner is often jealous and possessive.
- Violence is never okay. And it's never the victim's fault.
- Your partner often ignores or interrupts you.
- Your partner does what he/she wants, regardless of your opinion. He/she always has to be in control, deciding where you go, what you wear and who you see.
- Your partner is violent and is unable to control anger.
- Your partner drinks too much or takes drugs.
- For young women, your partner tells sexist jokes and uses offensive language when describing women.
For more cool info, check out PCAR's teen site...click here.
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