How to Have a Safe Relationship

If you're afraid to be in a relationship because of bad experiences in the past with violence or abuse, it is comforting to know that it is possible to have a safe relationship. Here are some ideas for you.

 Steps

1- Heed any early warning signs in a relationship. If there are any signs that the person you are with might be volatile, easily angered, flares up without provocation, throws things, has tantrums, etc., then move on before you're stuck deeper. Listen to your inner voice and heed it.

2- Ask other people what they know of this person before getting more involved. If several people warn you off, then it's important to listen. On the other hand, if everyone speaks glowingly of this person, then you're onto something good. 

3- Date in public. Don't put yourself in a position of being harmed should anything go wrong. Don't go back to this person's place until you are sure you know them well enough.

4- Date with friends. Until you feel more reassured, date as a group or with another couple. If he or she doesn't like this, then don't keep dating them.

5- Keep your cell phone with you at all times and always know where quick exits are. If you need to get away from the person for any reason, you will feel reassured by knowing that you have lines of escape.