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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explain how to work at maintaining positive relationships.

      Key learning points

      1. It is important we set clear boundaries for ourselves and respect other people's boundaries too.
      2. We can work on relationships by listening to others, expressing our feelings, and being trustworthy.
      3. The dynamics of a relationship depends on the type of relationship we have with someone.
      4. There are people and places we can go to for support if we are concerned about a relationship.

      Keywords

      • Dynamics - the ways in which people interact, communicate and behave towards each other

      • Boundary - an imaginary line separating what we will and won't allow

      • Respect - being considerate of others and the world around you, treating people fairly and how you would like to be treated

      Common misconception

      If a relationship is positive, it will always be positive.

      In order for a relationship to remain positive, we have to be proactive and make conscious choices to keep the relationship positive.

      Teacher tip

      You might wish to relate positive traits to the values of your school, for example, honesty, good manners or collaboration.

      Content guidance

      Depiction or discussion of mental health issues

      Depiction or discussion of peer pressure or bullying

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      If this is the definition, then what what is the word? Being considerate of others and the world around you; treating people fairly and how you would like to be treated.

      Correct answer: respect
      boundaries
      positive
      relationship

      Q2.
      In which relationships would we find a power imbalance?

      Correct answer: with parents, carers or guardians
      with romantic partners
      with friends
      Correct answer: with those in authority

      Q3.
      In any relationship, healthy power should make everyone involved feel and secure.

      Correct Answer: safe

      Q4.
      Which of the following statements are accurate?

      Change is not normal: if a relationship is good, it will always be good.
      Change in relationships only happens when someone does something wrong.
      Correct answer: Change is a normal part of all relationships as we grow and situations change.

      Q5.
      Sam's friend has been pressuring her to do things she doesn't want to. They say things like "if you were really my friend you would do it". Which word best describes what Sam's friend is doing to her?

      respecting
      encouraging
      Correct answer: manipulating
      supporting

      Q6.
      What can control feel like in a friendship?

      Correct answer: It can make people feel disrespected.
      Correct answer: It can make people feel not listened to.
      It can make people feel happy and comforted.
      It can make people feel confident and secure.

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      If this is the definition, then what is the word? Ways in which people interact, communicate and behave towards each other.

      Correct answer: dynamics
      respect
      boundaries

      Q2.
      Which statements about boundaries are not accurate?

      Correct answer: Boundaries are only present in romantic relationships.
      Correct answer: It is ok to push people's boundaries if we want to.
      We should respect other people's boundaries and they should respect ours.
      Every relationship contains boundaries.

      Q3.
      Being reliable means ...

      doing what you want, when you want to
      Correct answer: doing what you say you will
      doing everything the other person wants you to
      doing what makes you happy, regardless of how it makes others feel

      Q4.
      We can work on relationships by listening to others, expressing our feelings and being ...

      Correct Answer: trustworthy

      Q5.
      Which of the following is accurate about the dynamics of friendships?

      Friendships should always continue, even when boundaries have been crossed.
      Correct answer: Friendships are built on equal responsibility and mutual respect.
      Friendships should always have one person with more authority than the other.
      Friendships do not need to have boundaries.

      Q6.
      Danny is concerned about his relationship with his boyfriend, as they are arguing frequently. What should he do?

      Ignore the problems, conflict is inevitable.
      Correct answer: Speak openly to him about his feelings without placing blame.
      Tell his boyfriend that he is solely to blame for their issues.
      Correct answer: Speak to a trusted adult about the concerns he has and ask for support.

      To help you plan your 7 RSHE (PSHE) lesson on: My role in positive relationships, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...