Ana Marie Zipagan
Prevention Program Intern

What is a “dating bill of rights”? To me, it means rights both people in a dating relationship should have. Rights that cover the emotional and physical well-being of a couple in a relationship. Rights that are to be respected at all times. Someone once told me, “good love is about good choices.” When we choose to respect one another’s rights, and stand up for our own, we are making good choices about a relationship based on love.

This Dating Bill of Rights was taken from dosomething.org. I’ve added my comments. 

Dating Bill Of Rights
I have the right: 

1. To always be treated with respect.
Not tolerating people who put me down in any way

2. In a respectful relationship, you should be treated as an equal.
No one has complete power of me

3. To be in a healthy relationship.
I can choose to be or not to be in a relationship

4. A healthy relationship is not controlling, manipulative, or jealous.
A relationship should never make anyone feel bad

5. A healthy relationship involves honesty, trust, and communication.
I have a right not to be lied to, and express my feelings in a healthy way with my partner. My partner should also express his/her feelings appropriately. 

6. To not be hurt physically or emotionally.
To be free from violence

7. You should feel safe in your relationship at all times. Abuse is never deserved and is never your fault.  Conflicts should be resolved in a peaceful and rational way.
A healthy relationship never includes violence

8. To refuse sex or affection at anytime.

9. A healthy relationship involves making consensual sexual decisions. You have the right to not have sex. Even if you have had sex before, you have the right to refuse sex for any reason.

10. To have friends and activities apart from my boyfriend or girlfriend.
I have a right to my independence.

11. Spending time by yourself, with male or female friends, or with family is normal and healthy.

12. To end a relationship

13. You should not be harassed, threatened, or made to feel guilty for ending an unhealthy or healthy relationship. You have the right to end a relationship for any reason you choose.