Healthy relationships
You know when you鈥檙e in a healthy relationship because you feel happy to see and spend time with your partner.
You will enjoy a unique feeling of intimacy with them, and a close physical bond that is both exciting and reassuring.
There are many factors that contribute to the development and maintenance of healthy relationships including:
- commitment;
- trust;
- respect;
- responsibility.
Commitment
All relationships require a level of commitment, but our sexual partners require the most. Each relationship is different, but you will likely show your commitment by:
- being sexually faithful;
- sharing financial burdens;
- making decisions together;
- raising children.
Trust
All relationships require an element of trust, but it is a must-have in a sexual relationship.
Trust means sharing your thoughts and feelings.
A relationship without trust is unlikely to survive.
Respect
Respect is essential in a committed relationship. So much of life is shared with a partner that it鈥檚 easy to show disrespect even when you think you鈥檙e not.
You might make fun of your partner鈥檚 attitudes or beliefs without realising that you have hurt them.
More seriously, you might treat your partner in a way that doesn鈥檛 value them as a person. That attitude can lead to an abusive relationship.
Responsibility
Being responsible means being honest about what you have said or done and being willing to face the consequences.
Doing so consistently will win you respect and loyalty.
It鈥檚 not always easy. Taking responsibility in a relationship might mean changing your behaviour to fit with your partner鈥檚.