Marital Issues and Divorce

Relationships can be both rewarding and challenging. No matter how short or long a time we've known someone, relating to others can be tough. But the challenges can be overcome if we listen to others, if we're assertive in stating our needs and wants, and if we respect each other (and ourselves).

Healthy Relationships

What makes a relationship healthy? Open, honest communication? Active listening? Respect? Mutual fun? These qualities and hundreds of others can define a positive, healthy relationship. We're often in control of what role these qualities play in our relationships, and we tailor all of our relationships to include these traits.

How Healthy is Your Relationship? A Self-Assessment

The beginning of the relationship is often exhilarating and easy. As time goes on, a healthy relationship requires good communication and cooperation between partners. The quality of our relationships affects our lives in many ways, including our self-esteem, our ability to handle stress, and our academic and work-related productivity. The following questionnaire can help you identify the health of the relationship that you have with your significant other. Answer each question with a simple "yes" or "no."

1. My partner and I have clear communication.
2. We have trust in one another.
3. There is mutual respect between us.
4. We have common interests.
5. We are able to perceive things differently without expecting each other to see things the others’ way.
6. I feel valued intellectually, emotionally, and if intimate, physically.
7. I am able to grow independently, and I support my partner’s growth, thus our relationship is also able to grow.
8. We have activities and friends outside of the relationship.
9. We accept each other and do not try to change one another.
10. Our relationship adds joy to my life.