HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS

Reasons for Dating  Fun and enjoyable  Friendship and intimacy  Companionship and emotional support  Learn how to communicate and resolve conflict effectively  Explore characteristics you would like in a future partner or spouse

Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships Healthy RelationshipUnhealthy Relationship EqualityControl HonestyDishonesty Physical safetyPhysical abuse RespectDisrespect ComfortIntimidation Sexual respectfulnessSexual abuse IndependenceDependence HumorHostility Choose Respect Initiative, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Small Group Discussion  What qualities do you look for in someone you want to date?  Do men and women want the same things? If there are differences, what are they?  What is the best and the most difficult parts about having a relationship?  How do you create healthy, satisfying relationships?

Look for a dating partner who:  Is honest  Is unselfish  Treats you and others well  Is tolerant and respectful  Has similar values  Is fun to be with  Respects himself / herself

Are You Date-able?  What makes someone Date- Able?  Find out if you have the skills to date successfully.  Take the Are You Date-Able? Quiz

Developing Healthy Relationships  Use the handout Choose Respect: Developing Healthy Relationships: A Role for Youth to discuss 8 key skills (on the following slide) required by both partners in a healthy relationship.  Can you identify behaviors for each skill. What does this skill look like? Sound like?

Healthy Relationships Skills  Controlling Anger  Problem-solving  Negotiating and Compromising  Being Assertive  Fighting Fair  Understanding  Listening  Being a Role Model Choose Respect Initiative, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

RESPECTFUL DATING BEHAVIOR

Dating in Groups  People often begin a relationship by dating in groups  Movies, dances, or sporting events  Get to know the other person without the pressure of being alone  Learn how your partner treats other people

Playing it Safe Activity 1. Cut out cards from the handout Playing it Safe. 2. Divide into groups of 4-5 students. 3. One person from each group randomly selects a card. 4. Discuss the situations on the cards using the following questions: 1. How serious is this situation? What are the risks? 2. Has a situation like this ever happened to you or a friend? 3. What did people do to help? Was it helpful? 4. Role-play what you would do. Give each person a role.

Follow the Rules  Respect the rules your parents and your partner’s parents have for dating  Know your own and your partner’s sexual limits

Ending a Relationship  Most dating relationships that begin in adolescence eventually end  Hurt, frustration, anger, and sometimes a sense of relief can make break-ups feel over-whelming  Use the What Apps Will You Choose? handout to help you navigate the process

What Apps Will You Choose?  Avoid spreading rumors about your ex  Don’t repeatedly check your ex’s Facebook, etc.  Make plans with family, friends, new people  Avoid calling and texting your ex  Listen to music that makes you feel better  Get enough rest, do things you enjoy  Delete embarrassing or harmful pictures of your ex Boston Commission on Public Health

After a Break-up…  Write a goodbye letter you won’t send  Talk to a parent, counselor or trusted adult  Remember you will feel better eventually