Expect Respect SF

In any kind of relationship, whether it’s with family, friends, teachers, boyfriend or girlfriend, you should expect respect. Depending on the particular ties between you and the other person, you may have different boundaries. For example, you’ll probably be closer with your mom than with your teacher. Your connection to your little brother will be different than your bond with the person you’re dating or talking to. No matter what kind of relationship it is, you can expect respect and other basic rights also.

Ask these questions about your dating relationship:

• Do you feel free to be yourselves around each other?


• Do you accept each other’s differences and respect each other’s opinions?


• Do you have equal decision-making power?


• Are you both willing to compromise sometimes?


• Do you each feel appreciated and liked?


• Do you solve conflicts without putting each other down?


• Do you both accept responsibilities for your actions?


• Do you make sure there is no physical or sexual abuse in your relationship?


• Do you talk about sex if you’re having it and never feel pressured to have   it?


• Do you give each other space?


• Do you have some privacy (letters; e-mails; journals)?


• Do you each control your own money?


• Do you not have to worry about jealousy or fear because you both feel   secure?


• Do you support each other’s individual goals in life, like getting a job or going to college?


• Do you always treat each other with respect