In Part 1 of Teen Dating Violence we discussed general information about teen dating violence. In Part 2 we will discuss healthy relationships. Teen Dating Violence Part 3 will address unhealthy relationships.

Teens do not have all the answers, although they think they do. Providing teens with information is the best way to arm them in life. To help teens understand that teen dating violence or dating abuse is wrong, they need to understand what a healthy relationship is.

Healthy relationships consist of:

  • Mutual respect – valuing each other and understanding the other person’s boundaries
  • Trust – placing trust in each other and giving each other the benefit of the doubt
  • Honesty – being honest builds trust and strengthens the relationship
  • Compromise – not always getting your own way; acknowledging different points of view and be willing to give and take
  • Individuality – do not compromise who you are; your identity should not be based on a partner’s; continue seeing friends and doing the things you enjoy; be supportive of your partner wanting to pursue new hobbies or make new friends
  • Good communication – speaking honestly and openly to avoid miscommunication. If one person needs to sort out his or her feelings first, the other partner should respect those wishes and wait until he or she is ready to talk.
  • Anger control – anger is normal, but how we express it can affect our relationships with others. Anger can be handled in healthy ways such as taking a deep breath, counting to ten, or talking it out.
  • Fighting fair – arguments are normal; but those who are fair, stick to the subject, and avoid insults are more likely to come up with a possible solution. Partners should take a short break away from each other if the discussion gets too heated.
  • Problem solving – Dating partners can learn to solve problems and identify new solutions by breaking a problem into small parts or by talking through the situation.
  • Understanding – take time to understand what the other might be feeling.
  • Self-confidence – When dating partners have confidence in themselves, it can help their relationships with others. It shows that they are calm and comfortable enough to allow others to express their opinions without forcing their own opinions on them.
  • Being a role model – By embodying what respect means, partners can inspire each other, friends, and family to also behave in a respectful way.

 

As a parent, many of the above characteristics of a healthy relationship are demonstrated in your everyday life and your relationship with a spouse, friends and family.

There are many situations and people that can negatively influence a teen’s perspective on relationships. If you find your teen is experiencing difficulties in relationships and he is not listening to sound advice, you may need outside help.

Reference:
http://findyouthinfo.gov/youth-topics/teen-dating-violence/characteristics