On November 8th, Touch of Love’s 16+ age group participated in a transformative and insightful workshop led by Emma Jael from Rape Crisis Grampian. This impactful session was designed to help young people explore the often-unspoken topic of power dynamics in sexual relationships, sparking honest and engaging conversations among the participants.
Creating a Safe Space for Open Dialogue
To ensure the session was comfortable and relatable, Emma adapted to the group’s preferences, making the workshop feel like a casual, yet meaningful, conversation. This approach helped the young people feel at ease, encouraging them to openly share their thoughts and experiences. The result was a powerful dialogue that delved into the ways power can shape relationships and the importance of mutual respect and equality.
Exploring Power Dynamics in Relationships
The session focused on key questions, such as:
• What makes someone feel more powerful than another in a relationship?
• How can power be used or misused?
• What factors, such as money, manipulation, or mental health history, can shift the balance of power?
Through these discussions, the group explored how imbalances of power can impact trust, communication, and emotional well-being in a relationship. The insights gained were both eye-opening and empowering, equipping participants with the tools to recognize and address power dynamics in their own lives.
Reflections from Our Young Achievers
The workshop inspired deep reflection, and our young achievers shared thoughtful takeaways from the session. One of the participants observed, "People can use power to get what they want in a relationship. If you feel vulnerable, it’s important to find an equal balance with your partner." Another participant added, "You can create equal balance by helping your partner overcome their vulnerabilities, supporting and understanding them." These reflections highlight the group’s growing awareness of the importance of mutual respect and balance in healthy relationships.
Fostering Healthy and Balanced Relationships
This workshop wasn’t just about identifying the challenges posed by power dynamics—it was also about equipping young people with the knowledge and skills to foster balanced relationships where both individuals feel heard, valued, and respected. By understanding how to navigate vulnerabilities and support one another, our young achievers are empowered to build stronger, healthier connections in their lives.
A Sincere Appreciation
We extend our deepest gratitude to Emma Jael and Rape Crisis Grampian for leading this vital workshop and shedding light on such an important topic. Their expertise and approachable style created an environment where learning and open dialogue thrived.
At Touch of Love, we remain committed to fostering understanding, respect, and healthy relationships in the lives of the young people we serve. By addressing these crucial topics, we help empower the next generation to lead lives rooted in mutual care, empathy, and equality.
