POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS

Some Positive Behaviors in a Relationship

• Showing interest in what your partner is saying,

• Expressing affection to your partner both verbally (“I love you”) and nonverbally (holding hands,  doing kind little things),

• Showing you care – perhaps by making a phone call during the day or bringing home flowers,

• Showing appreciation by remembering the good times in your relationship or telling your partner how proud you are of him or her,

• Indicating your concern – instead of acting defensive, show that you are concerned about your partner’s troubling experiences or apologize if you say something hurtful without thinking,

• Conveying empathy in your facial expression and verbal feedback – show that you truly care about what your partner is going through,

• Displaying acceptance of your partner’s thoughts and feelings – this shows your respect for your partner,

• Joking around, which includes playful teasing, laughing together, and maybe acting silly together, and

• Sharing your joy when good things happen.