My partner is always putting me down and making me feel bad about myself. How can I get him/her to treat me with respect?

Healthy relationships are based on respect and equality. By putting you down he/she is taking power from you and dominating you. It is important in any relationship that both partners feel safe and comfortable to express themselves honestly. Talk about how it makes you feel and how you would like them to change.

If you want this relationship to work and be healthy then you might consider counseling, either as a couple, or individually. Or on your own for now. Check your Yellow Pages under Social or Community services, or ring Youthline (0800 376 633) for a suitable counseling service near you.