What is a Healthy Relationship?

Lewis and Gossett (1999) define eight essential characteristics of a healthy relationship:

• Both partners participate in the definition of the relationship.

• There is a strong bond characterized by levels of both closeness and autonomy.

• Each individual in the relationship is interested in each other's thoughts and feelings.

• The expression of feelings is encouraged.

• The inevitable conflicts that do occur do not escalate or lead to despair.

• Problem-solving skills are well developed.

• Most basic values are shared.

• The ability to deal with change and stress is well developed.

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