High school relationships are common. It’s not uncommon to come across both healthy and unhealthy couples in the school. However, it’s important to note that the impact these relationships have on the people involved can be either detrimental or helpful.
To gain a deeper understanding of this two couples were interviewed as well as the school counselors at Cabell Midland High School. The image of a high school sweetheart or love interest is common for students to want. Some relationships can become so unhealthy that one may fail to recognize it.
According to mass.gov, an unhealthy relationship in high school can be showed by many negative aspects. For instance, it may involve gaslighting, where one partner manipulates the other’s idea of reality, causing confusion and self-doubt. As well as, controlling behaviors, where one partner tries to dictate who their significant other can be friends with and how they should behave. Effective communication may be lacking, leading to misunderstandings and unresolved conflicts. Another sign of an unhealthy relationship is when one partner always puts in more effort than the other, leading to unbalanced feelings. Also, a relationship can result in a negative self-esteem. In extreme cases, physical abuse may also occur, which is completely unacceptable and should never be tolerated.
A Cabell Midland student, who is in a toxic relationship shared that “my partner only wants me for my body. He has been so controlling and manipulative. I know I should end things with him, but I still love him, or at least who he was pretending to be in the beginning. I think of the good things to try and convince me to stay but it’s hard.” People may find themselves unable to let go of the person due to their strong emotions for them. Regardless, it’s important to evaluate the impact these relationships have.
TheHotline.org states that, a healthy relationship in high school is showed by many needed elements such as mutual trust, honesty, and good communication. Both partners should prioritize understanding and maintaining a calm manner during arguments, ensuring that conflicts are resolved in a respectful manner. Also, consent plays a crucial role in a healthy relationship, where both individuals feel comfortable and respected in their boundaries. Honesty, trust, respect, and open communication are the support in the relationship, requiring effort and compromise from both partners. It is important to note that the couple should respect each other’s independence and have the freedom to make decisions without fear of negative consequences. Mainly, they should share the responsibility of making decisions together, and promote equality.
In high school, there are also instances of healthy and amazing couples who seem to be good for each other. By hearing their perspectives and experiences, it helps to understand what a healthy relationship looks like in high school. Allee Walker said of her relationship with Brayden Hammond: “We mean the world to each other. There are no words that can express how much we love each other. We build each other up and we are always there when we need to be. Brayden makes me feel like an angel and he tells me I made his life so much better when I walked into it. Brayden has always been my strength and makes me feel safe and protected. He has stood by my side through every challenge and obstacle, proving his support. I know deep in my heart that Brayden is the one I wants to spend my life with, as he has shown time and again that our bond is unbreakable.” The description of their relationship shows they feel comfortable with each other, and they respect each other’s boundaries. They show good communication and support each other’s goals.
Additionally, Cabell Midland High Schools counselors, provided valuable information into the impact these relationships have on the students. Mrs. Price and Mrs. Hedrick both stated that “it is important also if you’re a friend of someone in an unhealthy relationship and can’t help them, to let the counselors know so they can make sure they know that they are deserving of the best.” They also stated that “we teach you how to be respectful and how to be confident in yourself and you to know yourself worth and we both illustrate how a relationship is supposed to be.”
Through interviews with couples and seeking the guidance of the school counselors, hopefully a deeper understanding of what a healthy and unhealthy relationships. It is crucial to address any potential dangers within these relationships to ensure the well-being of the people involved.
