Magazine articles on healthy dating relationships

Someone who's not happy or secure may have trouble being a healthy relationship partner.

Also, intense relationships can be hard for some teens.

It's no wonder — you're both still growing and changing every day.

You might seem perfect for each other at first, but that can change.

Some are so focused on their own developing feelings and responsibilities that they don't have the emotional energy it takes to respond to someone else's feelings and needs in a close relationship. You will be, and you can take all the time you need.

Ever notice that some teen relationships don't last very long?

Whether you're single or in a relationship, remember that it's good to be choosy about who you get close to.

When a boyfriend or girlfriend uses verbal insults, mean language, nasty putdowns, gets physical by hitting or slapping, or forces someone into sexual activity, it's a sign of verbal, emotional, or physical abuse.But even if you know that the person hurting you loves you, it is not healthy.No one deserves to be hit, shoved, or forced into anything they don't want to do.For some people who have grown up around this kind of behavior it can almost seem normal or OK. Many of us learn from watching and imitating the people close to us.So someone who has lived around violent or disrespectful behavior may not have learned how to treat others with kindness and respect or how to expect the same treatment.