A Brief Talk About Relationships

Bill:  "When Christy expected me to know what she wanted without telling me, I felt a lot of pressure. I was never sure how she’d react. Sometimes I’d do something thinking she’d like it, and she'd blow up because it wasn't what she wanted. Then I’d get mad and decide I wouldn't do anything. The fact that we’re communicating so much better now means that I don’t have to guess about things."

Christy: "I used to think that if Bill really loved me he would satisfy all my needs. I used to blame him when he didn't. I know now that's not true. I learned that I'm basically responsible for my own happiness."

Relationships can easily result into problems because of improper communication. In this example, when Bill and Christy began dating, they were attracted to each other and eventually fell in love. The relationship was going well. Like most relationships Bill and Christy's were  based on a combination of infatuation and need. Usually the infatuation fades and turns into mature love.  This is a normal part of a relationship. However if communication in the relationship suffers and issues are not resolved, once the infatuation fades, the needs of each partner are unable not be fulfilled. Thus leading to frustration, disappointment, anger, and often a break up.

When issues are never resolved and the relationship breaks apart, when each person enters into another relationship, they are likely to encounter the same problem within the new relationship. Often over and over, blaming the other or assuming they have the wrong person and another cycle begins. When in fact they have not learned how to effectively communicate in a relationship. It is often difficult to look at one's self. But often once one goes through several cycles of similar relationships before they are often faced with many painful break-ups forcing them into a crisis mode that pushes the person into looking at themselves in ways to find new solutions to their problems.

The following pages are designed to provide guidance, information, and services, to help you better understand and improve your ability to have a a successful relationship you desire.

Relationship Health

Healthy & Unhealthy Relationships

Basic Rights and Boundaries in a Relationship?

Is Your Relationship Healthy Quiz

Relationships & Premenstrual Syndrome