Relationships, Personal Skills, and Sexual Behavior

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Define different types of relationships: family, friendships, romantic relationships, and dating.

2. Identify key characteristics of healthy and unhealthy relationships.

3. Discuss the importance of communication, respect, and boundaries in relationships.

4. Recognize the value of personal skills in building positive relationships.

5. Understand sexual behavior, consent, and responsible decision-making.

Student Activity:

     On a piece of paper I would like you to write down different types of relationships. For example family, friend, or boyfriend.

Once you have done that. I want you to think about how each of these relationships are different. Then I would like you to begin writing down things you can do in one relationship but cannot do in another.

In a moment you will get into your groups and share.

Lets discuss these different relationships:

Family Relationships: Discuss the role of family in an individual's life. Touch on both positive and challenging family dynamics. Discuss the importance of communication, trust, and support.

Friendships: Explore the qualities of a healthy friendship. Emphasize trust, respect, shared interests, and mutual support.

Romantic Relationships and Dating: Discuss key aspects of romantic relationships, including attraction, emotional connection, and respect. Define “dating” and “dating violence” and stress the importance of mutual consent, respect, and healthy boundaries.

...What is an acquaintance? 

Class activity:

     The teacher is going to open a digital whiteboard. In your groups you will contribute to these two different whiteboards.

     One board is...characteristics of a healthy relationship.

     Second board is...characteristics of an unhealthy relationship

Ask the students to think about the qualities of their best friends or someone they admire. What makes these relationships strong?

(Handout Onelove 10 signs of unhealthy relationships) 

Discussion Questions:

• What are some signs that a relationship is unhealthy?

• How can you build trust in a relationship?

• If your friend treated you the way your partner treats you, would you still be friends.

Individual Student Activity:

On your paper write down all the characteristics you are looking for in a romantic relationship. It is also important to write down what would not be acceptable behavior from a partner.

Relationships are hard. It takes effort from both people to maintain a healthy relationship. Here is where personal skills are important.

Here are the necessary personal skills to maintain healthy relationships

• Self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and communication

• Empathy, active listening, and conflict resolution skills

• Self-esteem and self-worth in relationships*

Students are going to do a self reflection. On your paper, write down what are your strengths in this area and what are your areas for growth. 

What are some ways to improve self-esteem in the context of personal relationships? 

Key Concepts:

• Sexual behavior refers to any actions related to sexual expression, including physical activity, emotions, and decisions about sexuality.

• Responsible sexual behavior involves making informed, respectful, and consensual choices.

• Sex is not just a physical act but also has emotional, social, and psychological dimensions.

• Consent, healthy sexual decision-making, and respecting boundaries

• The physical and emotional aspects of sexual relationships

• Understanding sexual health and the importance of communication

Discussion: Ask students to brainstorm what "sexual behavior" means to them. 

Clarify Definitions: Go over important terms such as:

• Sexual Activity: Any behavior that involves sexual contact, ranging from kissing to intercourse.

• Sexual Health: The well-being of individuals in their sexual relationships, which includes physical, emotional, and mental health.

• Consent: Voluntary, informed, and enthusiastic agreement to engage in sexual activity.

• What does consent look like in a relationship?

  1. Is the subtle verbal consent? or does it have to be explicit?

  2. Is there such thing as non-verbal consent?

Consent can be withdrawn at any time, and it is important to recognize non-verbal cues and verbal cues. 

• Why is it important to communicate openly about sexual health and boundaries?

Discussion Questions:

• What are some reasons people choose to engage or not engage in sexual activity?

• Why is it important to consider both the emotional and physical aspects of sexual behavior?