Successful Relationships

Chapter 14

Objectives

• Distinguish among different kinds of relationships.

• Identify benefits of good relationships.

• Analyze factors that influence relationships.

• Describe ways to build and maintain strong relationships.

• Identify characteristics of unhealthy relationships.

Key Terms

• Relationships

• Expectations

• Stereotype

• Tolerance

• Prejudice

• Discrimination

• Authority figures

• Self-esteem

Overview

• Chapter 14 discusses different types of relationships.

• It covers the benefits of having good relationships, and the factors that influence relationships.

• It also focuses on building and maintaining strong relationships and how to identify unhealthy ones.

Kinds of Relationships

• Relationship – connections you have with other people.

• Some relationships are close while others are more casual. • Relationships with parents or family tend to be close, while others such

as classmates or co-workers are more casual.

• What makes a relationship close?

• Give an example of relationships limited to a specific purpose.

Rewards of Relationships

• Companionship

• Love and affection

• Support

• Positive self-concept

• Expanded interests

Influences on Relationships

• How you address the people in your life. Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss., Sir, or Ma’am.

• Roles and Expectations

• Personal Qualities

• Self-Esteem

• Stereotypical Thinking

Roles and Expectations

• Role – What is your role within the relationship? Son/Daughter, Co-Worker/Classmate? Your relationship depends on your role.

• Expectation – the wants and needs each person hopes to gain from the relationship.

• Roles also define the expectations. As a student you are expected to study and turn work in. As a parent you are expected to raise and guide children.

Personal Qualities

• Qualities also influence your relationships. • Values – beliefs about what is right and wrong

• Needs – fulfill certain requirements. Love, companionship, belonging, and acceptance.

• Interest and Abilities – Many relationships are because you have similar interests.

Self-Esteem

• Self-Esteem – Value or importance you place on yourself.

• High self-esteem enables you to have the confidence to meet new people.

• Also helps to steer you away from relationships that harm you.

• In turn, good relationships help to raise your self-esteem.

Stereotypical Thinking

• Stereotype – expectation that all people in a particular group will have the same qualities or act the same.

• Stereotypes get in the way of building healthy relationships.

• You can assume something that is not necessarily true.

• “never judge a book by it’s cover”

Qualities in a Strong Relationship

• Understanding

• Tolerance

• Dependability

• Willingness to Communicate

• Honesty

• Acceptance

• Patience

• Flexibility

• Respect

• Empathy

• Commitment

• Sense of Humor

Building Positive Relationships

• Good relationships don’t just happen. It takes work. You find ways to work through problems. • Start a relationship – talk to someone, find common ground

• Maintain a relationship

• Make time for others

• Give and receive

• Showing tolerance

Making Time for Others

• Make an effort to plan activities with people you care about and less time alone. STAY OFF CELL PHONE WITH OTHERS!

• Plan ahead to avoid conflicts with important family activities.

• Eat meals with you family as often as possible. Ask whether you can invite friends from time to time.

• Recognize that good relationships are worth the effort.

Showing Tolerance

• Tolerance – Respecting others beliefs and customs.

• Prejudice – an unfair or biased attitude toward an individual or group.

• Discrimination – treating certain people differently as a result of prejudice.

Understanding Authority

• Be courteous and respectful

• Practice self-discipline. Obey the rules.

• Tell the truth.

• Listen to what you are told. Ask questions if you don’t understand.

• Accept responsibility for your behavior. Admit your mistakes.

• When you have a problem, talk to a person of authority.

Unhealthy Relationships

• Physical Abuse

• Controlling behavior

• Isolation

• Low Self-Esteem

• Dependence

• Bullying

• Dishonesty

• Irresponsible behavior

• Illegal activity

Ending a Relationship

• Relationships end. Sometimes for good reasons because they are unhealthy or have just run it’s course.

• It’s never easy, but try to be nice instead of hurtful.

• Don’t dwell on the loss, but try to move on.