The Importance of Mutual Respect in College Relationships: Creating a Positive Foundation – BlackDoctor.org

When thinking about the word “Respect” sometimes we often take that word for granted. “Many people could say you get respect where you give respect,” which is an agreeable statement. As a college student, “respect” matters a lot because it can decide opportunities, people’s impressions of you, and a portion of your reputation. Regarding respect, it includes communication, emotional wellbeing, teamwork, and resolution of conflicts.

Respect In Relation To Healthy Communication 

Effective communication is built on mutual respect. When people respect one another, they are more drawn to listen carefully, share their thoughts and opinions politely, and work together to establish a shared understanding. It can be challenging to communicate with someone when there’s no form of mutual respect. A lack of respect can affect healthy communication because someone does not regard the other, leading to them not valuing your opinion. Students may encounter these communication challenges when speaking with classmates, meeting with a professor, etc. Being a college student is already hard, so giving respect where respect is due when it comes to being in a classroom and or academic setting can take a student a long way. 

Establishing a sense of respect when it comes to your professors, administration, and faculty can be very beneficial. Professors will be more inclined to help you with academic-based issues; the administration might lighten their attitudes and be willing to help. Unfortunately, many HBCU students have a lot of trouble with certain administrations that have to do with certain offices. You would think that as a student who is paying to go to school, they should be willing to help. Still, sometimes they also have bad days, so when walking into certain buildings, if a student walks in there and gives off respectful energy toward such a person, they’re more likely to return it to you in return. 

And sometimes, that might mean not matching energy and being respectful when communicating with administration and faculty. Similarly, in the classroom, students who are more respectful to teachers or try to lead respectfully are more likely to have their professors willing to assist them and be more open to talking completely with said student. 

Respect Concerning Emotional Wellbeing 

  Mutual respect benefits everyone involved’s emotional wellbeing. Feeling appreciated and respected in a relationship increases self-esteem, promotes mental health, and reduces stress. When college students encounter difficulties without respect, they may feel scared or compelled to match said person’s energy. As a result, the student may give more energy to a situation since a disagreement has emerged, which can lead to stress and disrespect.