Perspectives: Healthy Relationships

The following are real quotes from young people who were asked: what does a healthy relationship mean to you? Everyone has a different idea of what a healthy relationship is, though there are some common themes throughout. We have gathered a diverse sampling of young people, with varied race, sexual orientation, gender identity, nationality, and backgrounds.

In a healthy relationship the person you are with respects you and your opinion and is willing to listen to you.
-Carmin, 21

To me a healthy relationship is one based on honesty. If you are that close to another person, you don't have to be afraid to tell them that you're attracted to someone else or that you think there is a small kink in your own relationship. This way, the little things don't have to turn into big things and talking about the little things can sometimes become great conversation.
-Adena, 17

A huge part of a healthy relationship is open communication. If you can't talk to your partner openly about your feelings, likes and hesitations, then you're not going to get far.
-Jennie, 22

To me, a healthy relationship is one where I receive respect from my partner-respect for who I am and respect for the right that I have to make my own decisions about my body.
-Naina, 19

A healthy relationship is, among other things, well rounded. Being able to do things together that you both enjoy, having meaningful conversations, maintaining individuality, and staying open to new things are all characteristics that make a relationship thrive over time.
-Melissa, 21

I think a healthy relationship is one in which both people feel loved, welcomed, cared for, respected, equal, and honest. It is one that gives people "me" time, but also "us" time. Above all, it is a relationship that there must be communication, love, honesty, respect, and equality.
-Sean, 25

Healthy relationships are mutually respectful, energizing partnerships that add intimacy and connection to life without harming other relationships.
- Ben, 20

In a healthy relationship I would feel completely comfortable with the other person. Right now I am single and I think that it is okay to be single, cause you can do what you want. You can take time to learn about yourself because you don't have to always think about your partner. And you can not shave your legs for like 6 months, cause no one will notice!
-Liesbeth, 19

To me, a healthy relationship has a foundation of trust, mutual respect, support, and fun.
-Jamie, 24

In a healthy relationship, my partner and I would be able to have open conversation about whatever is going through our lives at the time. This should hold true not only for "intimate" relationships, but friendships and families as well. The hard part, I think, is how to get the conversation started. I know I have had times where I really wanted to say something to my partner or friend or family member...but just didn't know how to start the conversation. Actually I wasn't sure if I was ready to have the conversation. But I guess that is part of the spice of life...we can't control everything.
-Lawrence, 21