3.3 Relationships
All relationships look different depending on who they are with, but one thing that all relationships should have is respect and a two-way balance of understanding.
Relationships can foster healthy interactions and well-being, as well as develop growth and recovery, but they can also cause harm.
Positive relationships are characterised by mutual respect, trust, and empathy, fostering emotional well-being and personal development – other relationships marked by abuse and neglect may lead to distress and trauma.
Self-care booklet
The course also emphasises the value of looking after yourself and knowing where to find further help and support for anyone who needs it.
You may find this self-care booklet [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] useful.
What can affect relationships?
Differences in wealth and resources – and societal inequalities such as race, gender, religion, education, and more – can have a deep impact on relationship-building and engagement.
Recognising these factors is central to relationship-based approaches as it ensures that everyone’s situation is considered, and this helps to support meaningful and supportive interactions.
Understanding these factors can help nurture healthier relationships for those with lived experience of care.
3.2 Attachment theory