Love Is Respect

First of all, Happy Valentines Day. As I mentioned in my last post, February is Teen Dating Violence month. I mentioned a lot of statistics about teen dating violence and what to look for. Well I thought today, seeing that it is Valentines Day, I would mention some of the things that teens should be looking for in the other person when they are dating. Some of the positive things that will help build a relationship and things that will make a relationship last. Here is a short list from the Prevention Action Alliance:

• Treats you with respect
• Doesn't make fun of things you like or want to do
• Never puts you down
• Doesn't get angry if you spend time with your friends or family
• Listens to your ideas and can compromise with you
• Isn't excessively negative
• Shares some of your interests and supports you in pursuing what you love
• Shares their thoughts and feelings
• Is comfortable around your friends and family
• Is proud of your accomplishments and successes
• Respects your boundaries and doesn't abuse technology to violate your boundaries
• Doesn't require you to "check in" or need to know where you are all the time
• Is caring and honest
• Doesn't pressure you to do things that you don't want to do
• Doesn't constantly accuse you of cheating or being unfaithful
• Encourages you to do well in school
• Doesn't threaten you or make you feel scared
• Understands the importance of healthy relationships

Finally, remember that healthy relationships are based on respect, communication, trust, honesty and equality. Thanks for reading and have a great Valentines Day.