But He Loves Me: Teens’ Comments about Healthy and Unhealthy Romantic Relationships

Romantic relationships can positively affect adolescent development. However, adolescents may not always have a clear understanding of what healthy dating looks like, which place some at risk for violence. The present study examined the following research questions: (1) What are adolescents’ perceptions and unhealthy attributes romantic relationships? (2) How do perceive jealousy potentially controlling behaviors? (3) is relationship between attitudes toward behaviors their willingness to intervene in peer’s relationship? included predominantly female, ethnically diverse sample 72 ( M = 17.5 years) who participated an internet-based health promotion intervention that allowed peers educators interact. Adolescents commented on message boards completed survey. Findings showed articulate both attributes. Some struggled understand including possessiveness, as these be perceived expressions strong interest. benefit from programs strengthen behaviors, teach youth distinguish address conflict respectful ways, tactfully when they witness abusive others.