R-E-S-P-E-C-T! What Does It Mean?
We hear the word “respect” often in our culture. Who should respect who? Why should you respect other’s opinions? How do you act respectfully?
What are some synonyms or similar words to respect?
Appreciation, Honor, Dignity, Admiration, Authority, Regard
What is the opposite of respect?
Disrespect, Criticism, Disdain, Neglect, Not caring
Everyone has people or values in their lives that they respect because they are important or impressive in some way. We might respect people in authority roles in our lives like parents, supervisors, or police officers. Others we may respect because we admire them in some way like a friend, an athlete or a musician. When you respect someone, it means that you accept them for who they are. Being respectful means acting kind and polite, even when you do not agree with someone.
How Do You Know If Your Relationships Have Respect?
- I feel safe around this person.
- I do not yell or speak over this person, and they do not yell or speak over me.
- This person and I can admit our mistakes to each other and apologize when we are wrong about something.
- I can tell this person I need space and they will understand. They give me space and do not get angry.
- We both can speak freely about our needs/wants.
- Neither of us try to control each other’s choices. I am free to do what is right for me.
- When we disagree, we take turns listening to each other patiently.
- It is OK for both of us to express who we really are around each other.
What If Someone is Disrespecting Me?
- You show others how to respect you. How you act should reflect how you want to be treated.
- That being said, you only have control over your actions. You cannot control what others do, but you can still try to make your relationship more respectful.
Most Importantly: You Must Respect Yourself
- You are important. You are valued.
- What you think and feel is just as important as what somebody else thinks and feels.
- Ending a relationship that is not respectful is a way of respecting yourself.
Activity
Complete this worksheet and share it with us by emailing [email protected] or posting it on our Facebook page. We look forward to seeing your completed work!
