Healthy relationships

Key facts

This article will cover the following areas:

That all types of relationships bring RESPONSIBILITIES.

Ways in which relationships can stay HEALTHY.

The causes and effects of UNHEALTHY relationships.

Try to remember these three key terms to help with revision:

RESPONSIBILITIES — HEALTHY — UNHEALTHY

When talking about relationships, this can mean with family and friends and, in particular, girlfriends, boyfriends and sexual partners.

The principles of maintaining good relationships are the same no matter who the relationship is with, but the attitude towards sexual partners is the one which has the most significance and lasting impact.

What are the responsibilities within relationships?

The responsibility to communicate

It is important to understand what each partner wants from a relationship.

Talking about this can be difficult, especially if they are not used to expressing their feelings.

The responsibility to understand

Sexual relationships can be complicated.

So many emotions, insecurities and hopes are bound up in them.

Even beginning to understand requires a lot of patience, openness and sincerity.

The responsibility to put your partner first

People in relationships usually work together to achieve common aims and goals.

Even when their goals are not shared, they still try to accommodate each other’s ambitions.

Sometimes, when ideas, beliefs or desires are not the same it is important to accept that compromise may be necessary.

A healthy relationship — whether romantic, friendship-based, or family-related — is built on mutual respect, trust and open communication.

It allows both individuals to feel valued, safe and supported while maintaining their independence and personal growth.

Mutual respect

• Each person values the other’s opinions, feelings and boundaries
• Differences are accepted without judgment or pressure to change
• Respect is shown through actions, such as listening actively and treating each other with kindness

Trust and honesty

• Trust is the foundation of a strong relationship and is built over time
• Honesty ensures there are no secrets, lies or betrayals
• Both individuals feel secure and do not feel the need to check up on or control each other

Open and clear communication

• Each person feels comfortable expressing their thoughts, needs and concerns
• Disagreements are handled calmly, without yelling, blaming or manipulation
• Both individuals listen to each other and try to understand different perspectives

Support and encouragement

• A healthy relationship provides emotional support during tough times
• Partners or friends celebrate each other’s successes and encourage personal growth
• There is no jealousy or resentment when one person succeeds

Healthy boundaries

• Boundaries are respected and no one feels pressured to do something they’re uncomfortable with
• Each person has time for their own interests, friendships and self-care
• There is a balance between togetherness and personal space

Equality and fairness

• Decisions are made together and both individuals have an equal say
• No one person dominates or controls the relationship
• Responsibilities, whether emotional or practical, are shared fairly

Conflict resolution without harm

• Disagreements are handled through discussion rather than shouting, blaming or physical harm
• Apologies and compromises are made when necessary
• Conflicts are not used as a way to control or manipulate the other person

Feeling safe and comfortable

• Both individuals feel emotionally and physically safe
• There is no fear of being judged, criticised or hurt
• Each person can be themselves without fear of rejection

Commitment and loyalty

• Both individuals are dedicated to maintaining and improving the relationship
• Effort is made to work through challenges rather than walking away at the first sign of difficulty
• In romantic relationships, commitment includes faithfulness and prioritising each other’s well-being
• In friendships and family relationships, loyalty means being dependable and supportive

A healthy relationship is based on mutual respect, trust, support and open communication.

It allows both individuals to feel valued and safe while maintaining their independence.

Recognising these features can help people build stronger, more fulfilling relationships and avoid unhealthy ones.