1. Building Relationship Equality

2. Relationship Equality
Healthy 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 Behavior
Talking 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 Support
Encouraging 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/Others
Maintain 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 Accountability
Accepting responsibility for one’s own actions
Acknowledging mistakes/admitting when wrong
Communicating openly and truthfully
Trusting partner and being trustworthy

7. Equality: Responsible Parenting
Communicating 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 Fairness
Both partners have equal decision-making power
Willing to compromise
Rules and agreements are made together and apply equally to both

9. Financial/Economic Independence
Both 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 Safety
Both 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