Answer to Question #304378 in English for Potter

Question

Discuss four characteristics of a negative relationship

Answer 1

Unhealthy relationships are marked by characteristics such as disrespect and control. It is important for youth to be able to recognize signs of unhealthy relationships before they escalate. It is important to educate youth about the value of respect and the characteristics of healthy and unhealthy relationships before they start to date. Some characteristics of unhealthy relationships include:

• Control. One dating partner makes all the decisions and tells the other what to do, what to wear, or who to spend time with. He or she is unreasonably jealous, and/or tries to isolate the other partner from his or her friends and family.
• Hostility. One dating partner picks a fight with or antagonizes the other dating partner. This may lead to one dating partner changing his or her behaviour in order to avoid upsetting the other.
• Dishonesty. One dating partner lies to or keeps information from the other. One dating partner steals from the other.
• Disrespect. One dating partner makes fun of the opinions and interests of the other partner or destroys something that belongs to the partner.
• Dependence. One dating partner feels that he or she “cannot live without” the other. He or she may threaten to do something drastic if the relationship ends.
• Intimidation. One dating partner tries to control aspects of the other's life by making the other partner fearful or timid. One dating partner may attempt to keep his or her partner from friends and family or threaten violence or a break-up.
• Physical violence. One partner uses force to get his or her way (such as hitting, slapping, grabbing, or shoving).
• Sexual violence. One dating partner pressures or forces the other into sexual activity against his or her will or without consent.