Fairness and equality are fundamental parts of a healthy relationship. Relationships thrive when there is fairness and equality in a relationship. shouldn’t be one-sided. Each person should be willing to compromise and listen to the other person’s thoughts and needs. When it comes to opinions, both of yours matter.

Why does equality even matter, you might ask? Well, we know that in an abusive relationship, one partner maintains power and control over the other. This type of relationship is extremely unbalanced and unequal. By understanding equality in a relationship, we can evaluate and ensure healthier relationships for ourselves.

Relationships shouldn’t be one-sided. Each person should be willing to compromise and listen to the other person’s thoughts and needs. When it comes to opinions, both of yours matter.

Both person’s needs are important, not just one person’s.

The effort and work in the relationship are done by both, not one.

You both encourage each other’s dreams and goals.

If you feel like things are feeling pretty one-sided (one person is always in control, one person gets all the attention, one person gets their needs met), then this is plainly unfair and a form of inequality.

If you are unclear as to whether your relationship is fair and equal, feel free to contact your Safe Journey teen counselor advocate at (814) 438-2675 or email info@safedatesmatter.org.