There are differences between men and women in their approach to love and relationships. True intimacy can be very different to "romantic love". "Romantic love" is sold to young women in many ways such as magazines, television, books and the internet. "Romantic love" can put sex before safety. For young women "romantic love" may mean: "Falling in love" just happens it is not in our control We are seen as a better, more complete person if we have a partner It's good to put your partner's needs before your own Jealousy and bad behaviour are okay Jealousy shows your partner really cares about you If we love a partner we must trust and believe in them unconditionally These ideas may encourage you to excuse bad behaviour instead of taking it as a warning sign and backing out of a relationship before you are too attached. One example of how we may excuse bad behaviour is: Excusing your partner's pressure to not wear a condom because that may mean you don't trust or love him enough For young men ideas of "romantic love" may mean: I am the most important person in a romantic relationship My ideas are usually the right ideas I deserve unconditional love and support I deserve my partner's trust, despite bad behaviour in the past My needs are more important to my partner than her friends' needs If I feel hurt and jealous I may not be able to stop myself hurting my partner Jealousy is a normal part of a lot of relationships, not always something men can control These ideas may have young men excusing some very unfair and hurtful behaviour that could lead on to a pattern of established abuse. Remember that "romantic love" is different to loving intimacy! If you want to know more about the difference between ideas of romantic love and loving intimacy click here