Everybody can use a little helpful guidance in relationships. Where that advice comes from makes all the difference!
 
This section will provide some help on developing the best relationships you can---relationships that are healthy, and positive!
 
 

Personality Styles

In any type of relationship you will display a certain personality style. Let's explore the four styles of relating to other people-decide which style belongs to the correct definition.
 
___ Aggressive
 
___ Passive
 
___ Passive-Aggressive
 
___ Assertive
A. This person tends to overpower other people. They are often loud, bossy, and dominating. When conflict arises, this person will often verbally attack the other person. They usually blame other people and are rarely willing to admit or take responsibility for their part in the conflict. This person has no problem violating others rights in order to get what they want.

B. This individual is likely to avoid dealing with problems and does not speak up for his or her rights. They are often nervous and anxious, talks in a quiet voice, and has little confidence in themselves. He/she often tries hard to please others and neglects to take care of their own needs. Because this person "hides" anger instead of expressing it, the anger just builds up inside. The pinned up anger will often times lead to an explosion, or the person may develop problems like depression, headaches, and other pains, sleeplessness and anxiety.

C. This next individual may seem passive because they behave in similar ways. But instead of "stuffing" their anger, this person is sure to "get back at you!" They often get back at you in a sneaky, underhanded way or in a way that will hurt you without drawing attention to themselves. They even do things unconsciously to hurt you and make you upset. This person is often suspicious or distrustful of others. Because this person chooses not to address the real problem, they rarely get their needs met.

D. This last person is clear, confident, and in control of their own self at all times. He/she stands up for their rights without stepping on anyone else's feelings. They speak with a clear voice that is direct, honest, and respectful. This confident person is able to say "no" to anything they are uncomfortable with, and is not about to compromise his or her own beliefs or values to make some other selfish person happy.
 
 
Now that you've made all the right choices and have a better understand about personality styles. Let's see what each of these styles looks like in a dating relationship. Read the following example of a situation between Kendra and Will, then read the four possible reactions. After each response, note Kendra's relationship style.

Here's how it went down:
Kendra and Will made plans to meet at the front gate of the football stadium of the rival team at 7:00 p.m. Kendra was a little uneasy about meeting Will at the front gates. She would have preferred to meet at her home and drive over together. After 30 minutes of waiting for Will she vowed never to let this happen again.

 READ THE RESPONSE
SELECT THE STYLE 
1. When Will shows up, Kendra kisses him and acts like nothing is wrong. When Will says "Sorry I was late," Kendra says "It's alright."
(  ) Aggressive                   (  ) Passive 
(  ) Passive-Aggressive       (  ) Assertive
2. When Will shows up, Kendra says hello and asks to speak with him alone for a minute. She says, "Will, you were 30 minutes late and I was really uncomfortable being here alone because I didn't know anyone. What happened to you?"  She gives him a chance to explain and after accepting his apology she says "But I don't like to be kept waiting. Next time please call me on my cell if you're going to be that late."
(  ) Aggressive                   (  ) Passive 
(  ) Passive-Aggressive       (  ) Assertive 
3. When Kendra sees Will coming, she starts to flirt with another guy she recognizes from school, thinking that will teach him not to make her wait.
(  ) Aggressive                   (  ) Passive 
(  ) Passive-Aggressive       (  ) Assertive 
4. When Will shows up, Kendra goes off on him. Before he even gets a chance to say anything, she's yelling at him in front of everyone. "Where have you been? Who do you think you are making me wait 30 minutes for you! You can forget this football game, we're leaving now!"
(  ) Aggressive                   (  ) Passive 
(  ) Passive-Aggressive       (  ) Assertive 


Dating and relationships are an important part of growing up. Understanding personality types is helpful for appreciating that while people are different, everyone has a value, and special strengths and qualities, and that everyone should be treated with care and respect.
    
If you're not sure where you stand with someone, don't be afraid to ask him or her. Find out what kind of relationship the person thinks you two have and what kind of relationship he or she wants to have with you in the future. Whether you decide to date or to be just friends, it is important to have an honest, open relationship and good communication.