1 Building Relationship Equality

2 Relationship EqualityHealthy relationships are based on Equality (balance of power and control) People believe both are equal, neither tries to gain power or control, results in a non-violent and healthy relationship Communication and Compromise

3 Equality: Non-threatening BehaviorTalking and acting so both partners feel comfortable expressing their opinions/decisions Both feel safe around each other (Not exhibiting Physical/Emotional abuse)

4 Equality: Trust and SupportEncouraging partner’s goals Pointing out talents/strengths Valuing their feelings/opinions Respecting Privacy (facebook stalking, checking their phones, checking in too often) Listening

5 Equality: Connections w/OthersMaintain friendships and family relationships with others Enjoy activities outside the relationship with other people Make own decisions about where they go, what they do, who they hang out with

6 Equality: Honesty and AccountabilityAccepting responsibility for one’s own actions Acknowledging mistakes/admitting when wrong Communicating openly and truthfully Trusting partner and being trustworthy

7 Equality: Responsible ParentingCommunicating and making responsible decisions about pregnancy Sharing responsibilities and being positive to each other Demonstrating non-violent role models for children

8 Equality: Negotiation and FairnessBoth partners have equal decision-making power Willing to compromise Rules and agreements are made together and apply equally to both

9 Financial/Economic IndependenceBoth partners control their own money Negotiate about shared expenses No demands for money or material items Have the ability to purchase things with own money

10 Equality: Sexual SafetyBoth partners are able to say “no” to any sexual behavior not comfortable with Honor and respect each other’s sexual decisions Communicate about sex and practice “safe sex” if sexually active