Lately it seems like girls are okay with being disrespected and more importantly, guys are fine with blatantly disrespecting them. Respect is an unwritten rule that everyone should have and give, it seems as though our generation deem it as something not important or worth using. This same lack of respect is present in young relationships where the couples are not treating each other with half as much respect as they should be.
Your teenage years should not be centered around being in a relationship but more so about knowing your worth, not settling for less, and overall having more self respect.
According to the American Psychological Association, “Up to 19% of teens experience sexual or physical dating violence, about half face stalking or harassment…” Teenagers often find themselves in these situations due to the belief that they are in love.
However, disrespect is not equivalent to love. A UACHS senior who would like to remain anonymous gives us their take on relationships in our generation.
“Being in a young relationship does not last because of mistakes made by childish mindsets but depending on a person’s maturity level you can grow from them,” said anonymous. “Everyone’s mindset is different, meaning that there are certain things that are okay with some people and not others.”
Communication and respect may not be evident in most relationships, which ultimately leads to toxicity caused by arguing due to miscommunication and the feeling of not being heard. Instead of letting this be known, people respond by cheating and being disrespectful because it seems easier instead of trying to make it right.
“Relationships should be built off of loyalty and trust in order for things to work,” said anonymous.
Agreeing to be in a relationship establishes your commitment to your partner. Without loyalty, there is no commitment. Relationships are built off boundaries and by disrespecting your partner and their needs, there is no point in being with them.
From the beginning you and your partner should discuss things that you are both comfortable and not comfortable with. This will help avoid unwanted situations.
As young adults, toxic relationships should not be normalized. There is nothing normal about cheating, being disrespectful, or hurting someone physically, mentally, and emotionally. Remember that people will do what you allow them to do.
