"Negotiating Intimate Relationships": Delhi University's New Course For GenZ

Delhi University is introducing a new course titled 'Negotiating Intimate Relationships' for undergraduate students, which will help them deal with failed or toxic relationships. The course aims to equip students with skills to handle heartbreaks and identify red flags in relationships, especially in an era dominated by social media platforms like Tinder and Instagram.

This four-credit course, managed by the Department of Psychology, consists of three lectures and one tutorial each week. It targets undergraduate students who have completed Class 12 and have foundational knowledge in psychology. Students can choose this elective alongside their primary subjects, offering them a chance to engage in discussions typically overlooked in formal education.

Course Content and Structure

The curriculum covers four main units. Unit 1 focuses on how friendships can develop into romantic relationships. Unit 2 delves into theories of love and sexuality, including Sternberg's triangular theory and the two-factor theory. Unit 3 helps students recognize toxic patterns such as jealousy and signs of intimate partner violence. Finally, Unit 4 emphasizes building healthy relationships through emotional support and communication.

Interactive teaching methods are a key feature of this course. Students will analyze social media habits, explore breakup scenarios, deconstruct pop culture references like "Kabir Singh" and "Titanic", and participate in boundary-setting exercises. These activities aim to provide practical insights into managing personal relationships effectively.

Addressing Recent Concerns

The introduction of this course comes after several relationship-related incidents involving students in Delhi. These events highlighted issues such as jealousy and online surveillance, prompting the university to address these concerns through education. By offering this course, Delhi University hopes to reduce crimes associated with toxic relationships among teenagers.

The programme is designed to help students navigate inevitable situations they may encounter in their personal lives. By understanding intimacy better, they can make informed decisions about their relationships, ultimately fostering healthier interactions with others.