1. Human Dynamics Unit 2: Relationships Lesson 1: Introduction

2. What is a relationship?
In the first unit the relationships within family were explored. There are other types of relationships including personal, group, formal, authority-based, and impersonal. This section will identify these relationships and provide examples of each.

3. Relationships
According to the Webster's Dictionary, a relationship is a dealing between persons or nations or a connection between things. On a daily basis, each person is involved in many types of relationships.

4. personal - these are the relationships that are your own
personal - these are the relationships that are your own. They may include the relationships with your family, your close friends, and your boyfriend/girlfriend. These relationships usually last for longer periods of time however they may change with time.
group - any relationship involving a group of people. All of your school classes involve a group relationship. There are expectations for the group that become part of this relationship.
formal - these are the relationships based on conventions. They may include the relationship with a minister (church congregation), with a teacher (class), and with an instructor (piano, skating, dance)
authority-based - any relationship with an authority figure. The relationship with the principal of the school is authority-based.
impersonal - the relationships with objects or possessions. These could include the relationship with a favourite book or stuffed toy.

5. Many relationships are a combination of the types defined
Many relationships are a combination of the types defined. Often, a classmate will be a personal friend as well as part of the group.
Before considering relationships with others, it is important to look at the relationship you have with yourself. The way you look at yourself will determine the way you look at relationships with others. Considering your ability to handle anger, deal with stress or work with a group will allow you to develop the characteristics you like in others.
The activities you will complete for this lesson deal with your relationship with yourself. This will be discussed but you will not be expected to reveal the results of the quiz you completed. These activities are only meant for you to reflect on yourself and will not be part of the evaluation for this course.

6. Test Yourself
1. What is the type of relationship that is built on conventions?
authority based
formal
impersonal
personal
2. What type of relationship does a small child have with a blanket?
group
3. What type of relationship does an employer have with a employee?
4. What type of relationship do you find at a Weight Watcher's meeting?

7. Activity
Complete the personality traits analysis sheet for yourself. Choose four other individuals to fill out a Personality Traits Analysis Sheet each. Choose at least one family member. Transfer all of this information to the Master List. Complete the assignment on the bottom of the Master sheet.
To help develop your personal relationship - each morning when you get up, look at yourself in the bathroom mirror. Look into your eyes and tell yourself, "I'm going to have a great day!"
It's not that easy to do without feeling a bit silly, but when you can talk to yourself it helps with your self-relationship.