What is an unhealthy relationship?

An unhealthy relationship looks and feels unbalanced. There is an imbalance of power and control. One or both partners may use threats, intimidation abusive or violent language or name calling.

Information replicated with permission from Family Planning.

Healthy relationship

They tell you that you’re really great looking

You can be yourself and you don’t have to pretend you’re someone you’re not

You feel really good with them

They make you feel really wanted

They like your family

When you are stressed out they listen and support you

They like being seen with you

You really like their friends and you feel relaxed and comfortable with them

Positive Relationship Quiz

Whether you are in a long-term or casual relationship, you deserve to be treated well and ensure that you are treating your partner respectfully. Take the quiz to see how healthy your relationship is.

Unhealthy relationship

You know they’re not the partner you want but you think you can change them

You stay with them because it’s better than being alone

Getting physical together is the most important thing

They make the decisions about where to go and what to do

When you are with them you end up arguing all the time

They’re always breaking up and you’re always having to make up again – and it’s always your fault

They put you down and make fun of you

You get embarrassed when you hang out in public

You haven’t got time for anything or anyone else

When you’re with their friends they ignore you or humiliate you

You couldn’t talk about condoms or contraception, it would be too embarrassing

They really get jealous when they see you talking to other people

They say bad things about your family

They tell you what to do and what to wear

They tell people bad things about you that aren’t true – like how and when you have sex

If you think you or someone you know may suffer from dating violence, please ask for help

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