Red flags are warning signals that caution about possible dangers. Learning to detect the red flags in a relationship could help you determine when something is wrong, either in your own relationship or that of a friend. All kinds of relationships can have healthy and unhealthy characteristics (friends, family members, romantic partners, married couple, co-workers, managers). What are some red flags or danger signs in an unhealthy relationship? Emotional abuse, blaming, isolation from friends and family, lack of separate identities, lack of respect for boundaries, being pushed to do more sexually than you are comfortable with, controlling behavior, dishonesty, physical and sexual abuse are some examples of warnings or red flags. Healthy relationships require effort — but it is also important to remember that not all relationships can be “fixed.” Just as Canadians have the right to vote, freedom of speech, and freedom of religion, a person has rights within a relationship. Regardless of the nature of the relationship (friends, family members, romantic partners, married couples, co-workers, managers), a person has certain rights that must be respected. Am I in a healthy relationship? Warning Signs of an unhealthy relationship Safety in Relationships Ending Abusive Relationships This assignment has three parts: Part 1. Helping a friend. A friend tells you that he/she is in what might be an unhealthy relationship. What three “red flags” would you tell this person to watch for?
