More Info
Home »- What does the research say?
- Can you tell me more about the curriculum?
- What topics can be covered?
- What Defines a Healthy Relationship?
What does the research say?
Research indicates that social connection improves physical health, mental health, and emotional well-being. Healthy relationships are essential for success in life, and therefore relationship education is a vital component for equipping teens to thrive.
Learning Theories and models utilized in the development of presentations include, but are not limited to:
Adverse Childhood Experiences
Assets theory
CDC’s YRBS Youth Survey 2021
Optimal healthy model
Primary Prevention Health Model
Social cognitive theory
Social inoculation theory
Social norms theory
Success sequence theory
Theory of planned behavior
Transtheoretical (Stages of Change) Model
Trauma informed approach
What Defines a Healthy Relationship?Characteristics of Healthy Relationships
- Mutual trust
- Honesty
- Compromise
- Emotional safety
- Shared values
- Shared goals
- Asking for what you need
- Connectedness to family and friends
- Individuality
- Skilled communication
- Humor and fun
- Ability to control anger
- Ability to resolve conflict
- Ability to problem solve
- Mutual respect autonomy and dependence
Can you tell me more about the curriculum?
REAL Essentials Advanced Curriculum is an evidence-based and evidence- informed curriculum developed by The Center for Relationship Education founder Joneen Mackenzie RN. For more information on the curriculum and resources they provide please see their website at:
Home | The Center for Relationship Education (myrelationshipcenter.org)
What topics can be covered?
The REAL Essentials curriculum covers a wide variety of topics, including:
- Bullying & Violence
- Committed love & Marriage
- Dating Decisions
- Drug & Alcohol Abuse
- Effective Communication
- Interpersonal & Social Skills
- Leadership & Job Readiness
- Navigating conflict
- Self-Identity
- Setting Boundaries
- Sexual Health
- Social Media Literacy
- Suicide Prevention
- Understanding Others’ Perspectives
Characteristics of Unhealthy Relationships
- Control
- Hospitality
- Contempt
- Defensiveness
- Dishonesty
- Disrespect
- Passive-aggressive behaviors
- Sarcasm
- Dependence
- Intimidation
- Threats
- Isolation from family and friends
- Physical violence
- Emotional manipulation
- Sexual violence
- Power plays
