7 Green Flags of Healthy Relationships

At MSP, we spend a lot of time discussing red flags in relationships. These are behaviors that can be problematic and lead to abuse. On the flip side, there are green flags. These are behaviors that can lead to healthy relationships.

7 green flags to look for are: 

1. Consent: Consent is a freely given agreement by each partner before any sexual activity. It can change at any time during and should be an on-going conversation. All partners should be able to openly communicate what they do and do not feel comfortable with at all times.                                                          
2. Open Communication: Partners should feel safe talking about problems and concerns. Open communication also means actively listening or listening to understand and not to respond. Each partner should have the ability to have their thoughts and feelings validated.                                                                             
   
3. Respect: Respect is shown in how partners are treated on a daily basis.Each partner should have the freedom to be themselves at all times. Everyone’s opinions, feelings, are valued equally, even if there is a disagreement.                                                                                                                                             
4. Trust: In trusting relationships, each partner is believed without the need to “prove” honesty. Partners feel safe being vulnerable with each other. It takes consistency and effort to build a strong foundation built on trust.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 
5. Honesty: Partners do not lie to each other, they are free to be their authentic selves, and they arestraightforward with each other. It doesn’t mean sharing everything– infact, in healthy relationships, it’s good to feel comfortable keeping some things private.                                                                                                                                                                                                          
6. Equality: In equal relationships, each partner is held to the same standards, all partners have equal say in making decisions, and equal access to resources. Each person’s needs and desires are respected and met.                                                                                                                                                                                                  
7. Boundaries: Boundaries are the rules we set for ourselves and within relationships. Each partner should feel comfortable and enjoy spending time together, alone, and with others outside the relationship. Boundaries can be emotional, physical, sexual, financial, digital, and more. It is important that each partner’s boundaries are understood and respected. 

Each relationship is as unique as the people in it. All relationships will have their own understanding of boundaries, standards, communication rhythms, and more. The common connector in all healthy relationships is that each partner feels safe, respected, and loved.

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse in an intimate relationship, support is available.