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From DBT Skills Training Handouts and Worksheets, Second Edition  by Marsha M. Linehan. Copyright 2015 by Marsha M. Linehan. Permission 
to photocopy this handout is granted to purchasers of this book for personal use only (see copyright page for details).interpersonal effectiveness Handout 13   (I. E. Worksheet 10)
ending r elationships
a destructive relationship has the quality of destroying or completely spoiling either the quality 
of the relationship or aspects of yourself—such as your physical body and safety, your self-  esteem 
or sense of integrity, your happiness or peace of mind, or your caring for the other person.
an interfering relationship is one that blocks or makes difficult your pursuing goals that are impor -
tant to you; your ability to enjoy life and do things you like doing; your relationships with other per -
sons; or the welfare of others that you love.
Decide to end relationships in WiS e minD,  
never  in emotion mind.
if the relationship is impor TanT and noT  destructive, 
and there is reason to hope it can be improved, try  
pro Blem S olvin G to repair a difficult relationship.
cope aheaD to troubleshoot  
and practice ending the relationship ahead of time.
Be direct: u se the D ear man G ive fa ST interpersonal 
effectiveness skills.
practice  oppo SiTe ac Tion for love when you find 
you love the wrong person.
prac Tice S afeTy fir ST!  
Before leaving a highly abusive or life-  threatening 
relationship, call a local domestic violence hotline or the 
toll-free n ational Domestic v iolence h otline (1-800-799-7233)