Dating Violence: Defining Healthy Relationships

University Police
Victim Services 561-297-0500


How many of the following are present in your relationship?

  • You feel safe and comfortable with each other. You play, laugh, and have fun.
  • Communication is open and spontaneous - you listen to each other and feel that you are heard. You decide things together.
  • You can express your feelings without fear of your partner's reactions. You can talk about conflict directly, and resolve it with win-win outcomes.
  • Rules and boundaries are clear and defined, yet allow for flexibility if you desire change. Both of you feel free to express your needs.
  • Feelings and needs are expressed, appreciated, and respected by both.
  • You can be together as a couple without losing your sense of yourself.
  • Personal growth, change and exploration are encouraged for each and by each.
  • Your lives outside the relationship make your relationship stronger. Other meaningful relationships and interests exist for both partners.
  • You each take responsibility for your own behaviors and happiness.
  • Your partner does not try to change or control you when you disagree.
  • You can say "no" without feeling guilty about it.
  • You can really trust each other. You must feel trust and you have reason to trust. You each work hard to be trustworthy for the other.
  • There is a balance of giving and receiving in your relationship. Equality is both affirmed and celebrated.
  • Each person can enjoy being alone, and requests for privacy are respected.
  • Both people recognize that any violence is unacceptable.