An interpersonal relationship is the interaction or association between two or more people in society.
It will be difficult for one to exist in isolation without relating to other people. Interpersonal relationships is therefore essential for human coexistence.
TYPES OF INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIP
- Man and Woman Relationship: This relationship exists between a man and a woman at different levels and for various reasons. This kind of relationship often leads to marriage between a mature man and woman.
- Man and Man Relationship: This relationship exists between a man and another man. This relationship lasts long if the people involved have something meaningful to benefit from one another.
- Woman and Woman Relationship: This is the kind of relationship that exists between a woman and another woman. The basis of this relationship or friendship could be economic, social, religious or otherwise.
- Government and Individual Relationship: This is the relationship that exists between the government and an individual in society. This relationship becomes necessary where the individual has businesses to transact or services to render on behalf of the government.
- Peers Relationship: This is the relationship that exists between people of the same group, age bracket, mates or even colleagues.
- Relationship across Culture/Race: This is the type of relationship that exists between two or more people from different cultural backgrounds, languages and races.
Here’s a clear and structured outline of skills that promote interpersonal relationships, especially useful in a lesson context:
Skills that Promote Interpersonal Relationships
1. Effective Communication
- Ability to express oneself clearly and listen attentively.
- Includes both verbal and non-verbal communication (tone, gestures, body language).
- Builds understanding and reduces conflicts.
2. Active Listening
- Paying full attention when others speak.
- Showing interest through eye contact, nodding, or short responses.
- Helps people feel valued and respected.
3. Empathy
- Understanding and sharing the feelings of others.
- Promotes compassion and strengthens bonds.
- Encourages trust and mutual support.
4. Respect
- Treating others with dignity regardless of differences.
- Avoiding insults, mockery, or disregard for other people’s opinions.
- Respect fosters peace and cooperation.
5. Conflict Resolution
- Ability to handle disagreements peacefully.
- Involves negotiation, compromise, and fairness.
- Prevents breakdown of relationships.
6. Teamwork and Cooperation
- Working together towards common goals.
- Encourages unity, sharing of ideas, and collective success.
7. Tolerance and Patience
- Accepting people’s differences (culture, religion, personality).
- Being patient with others helps reduce tension and build trust.
8. Trustworthiness
- Being reliable, honest, and dependable.
- Trust is the foundation of every strong relationship.
9. Emotional Intelligence
- Ability to manage one’s emotions and understand others’ emotions.
- Helps in making thoughtful decisions and avoiding unnecessary quarrels.
10. Good Manners and Courtesy
- Using polite language (e.g., “please,” “thank you”).
- Simple gestures of kindness strengthen bonds.
EVALUATION
- What is an interpersonal relationship?
- Mention five skills of interpersonal relationship.
IMPORTANCE OF INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIP
- It promotes peace in society.
- It encourages the spirit of unity in society.
- It ensures progress and development in society.
- It helps to reduce conflicts in society.
- It ensures law and order in society.
- It promotes a good image of the people.
- It enhances security in society.
EVALUATION
- Explain the types of interpersonal relationships.
- Mention any four important of interpersonal relationships.
GENERAL EVALUATION
- What is youth empowerment?
- Mention any five skills of youth empowerment.
- Define political apathy.
- List five reasons for political apathy in Nigeria.
- Mention five factor that can promote popular participation.
WEEKEND ASSIGNMENT
SECTION A
Instruction: From the options lettered A-D, choose the letter that is most appropriate for the following questions. Answer all the questions.
- Which of the following is not required for an interpersonal relationship? A. Tolerance B. Truthfulness
- Selfishness D. Forgiveness
- Good interpersonal relationships will lead to A. unity, B. conflict, C. development, D. progress
- The interpersonal relationship between people of the same age group is individual
- age group relationship, C. governmental relationship, D. peers relationship.
- The interpersonal relationship that can easily lead to marriage is A. husband and wife relationship peer relationship, C. man and woman relationship, D. man and man relationship.
- The ability to tell and stand for the truth at all times is called A. tolerance, patience, C. honesty, D. love.
SECTION B
- Explain how selflessness can promote interpersonal relationships in society.
- List any three factors that can hinder interpersonal relationship.