What is the theory behind this Characteristics of a healthy relationship worksheet?
Research on interpersonal relationships has established strong links between a healthy relationship and its positive effects on one’s physical health and subjective wellbeing. On the contrary, unhealthy relationships are found to be associated with low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and even substance abuse.
How will the worksheet help?
The worksheet will educate individuals in couples therapy about the characteristics of a healthy relationship that they can use to assess their own relationship. It will also highlight any difference or similarity in their individual perspectives.
It is important for couples to evaluate the quality of their relationship so that problem areas can be addressed in the therapeutic process.
How to use the worksheet?
Read through the given characteristics and answer the questions that follow. This worksheet is divided into two parts. Part A includes a list of characteristics of a healthy relationship along with their description. Part B consists of some reflective questions based on the characteristics listed in Part A.
Characteristics of a healthy relationship worksheet
A healthy relationship can have the following characteristics.
Adapted from J. G. Woititz, Adult Children of Alcoholics
| Mutual Respect | Giving value to the other persons opinions without being judgmental |
| Compassion | Showing genuine concern for the other persons worries and problems |
| Empathy | Being open to their feelings and opinions |
| Understanding | Trying to understand their actions and responses |
| Acceptance | Accepting them just the way they are |
| Honesty | Being truthful and open with each other, admitting mistakes |
| Vulnerability | Allowing them to show you their most vulnerable self without feeling judged or receiving negative reactions. |
| Shared responsibility | Making mutually beneficial decisions together and doing their fair share of work |
| Trust | Trusting the other with both the good and the bad |
| Good communication | Conversing in an understanding way and providing a safe space for the other to share and talk. |
| Consideration | Being mindful of your own and the other’s persons needs. |
| Personal Integrity | Maintaining your beliefs and sense of self while honoring the relationship |
| CompatibilityMutual Enjoyment | Agree and adapt to each other’s lifestyles, life goals and personalities. Find ways to enjoy together despite differences |
- Name a few healthy characteristics in your relationship?
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- Which of these is the weakest characteristic in your relationship?
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- Which characteristic do you need to work on?
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- Which characteristic does your partner need to work on?
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References
Diener, E., & Seligman, M. E. P. (2002). Very happy people. Psychological Science, 13(1), 81-84.
Woititzm J. G. (1990). Adult Children of Alcoholics. Health Communications Inc.
You can download this worksheet here.