CONTENTS

About This Course

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to the Issues
2. Understanding Alcohol Abuse
3. Understanding Violence Against Women
4. Alcohol and Domestic Violence
5. Alcohol, Sexual Assault, and Rape
6. Prevention and Early Intervention
7. Screening and Assessment
8. Diagnosis and Treatment
9. Legal and Ethical Issues

Supplements
Fact Sheets
Videos
Resources

Silence Hurts
Alcohol Abuse and Violence Against Women

What Is a Healthy Relationship?

The qualities of relationships that have been highlighted so far have not been healthy. It is easier to recognize the unhealthy qualities in a relationship than those qualities that are positive. If you work with any woman, you can use this checklist to help her assess her relationships.

My partner...

• Is sensitive to my feelings
• Respects my opinions and values
• Trusts me
• Is not overly jealous or possessive
• Accepts me for who I am and does not try to change me
• Treats me as an equal
• Is willing to discuss our problems and disagreements
• Doesn't try to control my life
• Does not embarrass me or put me down in front of others
• Is never physically rough or aggressive with me
• Does not criticize how I look or dress
• Listens to me and tries to understand my point of view³⁸

Healthy relationships are based on the belief that two people in a relationship are partners with equal rights to have their needs met and equal responsibility for the success of the partnership. Violence is not an option because it violates the rights of one partner and jeopardizes the relationship.