Relationship Contract
Learn how to create an effective Relationship Contract that can benefit the expectations and goals within your partnerships today through this handy guide and template!
Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.
What is a Relationship Contract template?
A Relationship Contract Template is a written document outlining the agreements, expectations, boundaries, and responsibilities typically shared between individuals in a romantic relationship, but can also be utilized in platonic, familial, or work relationships. It's a way for individuals to openly communicate and define various aspects of their relationships; rather than hold legal obligations, a Relationship Contract offers clarity for people to develop a shared vision.
Creating a Relationship Contract fosters and encourages openness, honesty, and courage. Its creation provides an opportunity for individuals to express what matters most to them within a relationship, and although difficult to do, it can have long-lasting benefits on the expectations and communication within the relationship. Put wisely by American writer Mandy Len Catron on relational contracting, “Every relationship is contractual. We’re just making the terms explicit” (Tagle & Schneider, 2022).
This tool or exercise gives power to the individuals to shy away from problematic and passive ideas tied to romance and instead focus on agency and thoughtfulness in intimate relationships. This is not a legally binding document but rather a clear expression of the parameters unique to that particular relationship. A Relationship Contract is a mutual agreement between partners that outlines the expectations, boundaries, and responsibilities within the relationship.
It's a proactive approach to fostering healthy communication, establishing guidelines, and maintaining transparency. These contracts usually cover various aspects of the relationship, such as financial matters, division of household chores, communication preferences, personal space, fidelity, and future goals. Each partner openly discusses their needs, desires, and non-negotiables, allowing both parties to understand each other's perspectives and create a framework for a fulfilling partnership.
These contracts are not about depriving spontaneity or romance; instead, they serve as a tool to build trust and respect by acknowledging and honoring each other's needs. They provide a clear roadmap for navigating potential conflicts or misunderstandings by referring back to agreed-upon terms.
It is important to note that the contract's success lies in its flexibility and adaptability to changing circumstances. Regular check-ins and revisions are crucial to accommodate personal growth or shifts in the relationship dynamics.
Printable Relationship Contract
Download this Relationship Contract, which outlines the agreements and responsibilities between individuals in a romantic relationship.
How does it work?
Our free printable Relationship Contract offers the scaffolding for this important tool and outlines aspects of the relationship to discuss, define, and refine. Here’s how to use this fully digital template:
Step 1: Download the template
Download a copy of the Relationship Contract form using the link on this page or from the Carepatron app. Alternatively, you may access it from our resources library.
Step 2: Dedicate time and energy to filling the form
Have all parties agree on a suitable time and place where everyone involved can devote a good amount of time and energy to the contract-making process. The discussions facilitated through the document may be difficult or bring up difficult emotions. It is important that everyone feels at ease and heard during the process. It may suit those involved in the relationship to look over the contract beforehand, think over certain aspects for discussion, and even fill the document in over a few sessions.
Step 3: Fill up and sign the contract
Once conclusions, expectations, and goals are set, and all parties agree with them, sign the document and ensure everyone has their own copy so that you can refer to it in case of any disagreement or dispute.
Step 4: Follow up and review
The successful implementation of a Relationship Contract lies in its ability to be reviewed and adapted to change with the individual's circumstances or feelings. Set dates in the future to discuss how the contract is suiting all parties and whether changes need to be made or whether goals aren't being met.
Relationship Contract example (sample)
Want to utilize this essential relationship planning tool and exercise? Acquire a free, downloadable, and printable Relationship Contract Template PDF that comes pre-filled with fictional data.
Our crafted sample template is designed to aid you in efficiently utilizing the contract and evaluating the goals and expectations of the relationship. It includes dedicated sections for aspects of intimate long-term relationships and outlines the key components of review and expectations.
Secure your copy by either previewing the sample below or clicking the "Download Example PDF" button.
Download this Relationship Contract example:
When would you use this template?
A Relationship Contract can be utilized in various scenarios and instigated by the individuals themselves or suggested by relationship coaches, counselors, or therapists. Below are some scenarios where a Relationship Contract may be utilized:
New relationships
Implementing a contract early on can establish a strong foundation, fostering mutual understanding and preventing misunderstandings.
Transitioning phases
During significant life changes like moving in together, getting married, or starting a family, a contract can help manage expectations and responsibilities.
Rebuilding trust
After a breach of trust or during relationship repair, a contract can assist in rebuilding trust by setting clear boundaries and expectations.
Conflict resolution
When conflicts arise repeatedly due to misunderstandings or differing expectations, a contract can serve as a guide for resolving issues.
Long-distance relationships
Creating a contract can be helpful in maintaining a healthy long-distance relationship by establishing communication guidelines and expectations.
Second chances
In reconciliations after separations or breakups, a contract can help re-establish boundaries and rebuild the relationship on new terms.
Ultimately, a Relationship Contract is most effective when all partners willingly communicate openly and honestly. It's about mutual respect, understanding, and a shared commitment to nurturing a healthy and fulfilling relationship.
What do the results mean?
A Relationship Contract is a mutual agreement between partners that outlines their relationship's terms, expectations, boundaries, and responsibilities. It's a formal or informal document that serves as a guide, establishing the framework for how the partners interact, communicate, and handle various aspects of their partnership. This contract can cover various topics based on the couple's needs and preferences. The ‘results’ or agreements made may include and outline:
Communication
How and when to communicate, preferred methods (text, call, in-person), and guidelines for resolving conflicts respectfully.
Financial matters
How finances will be managed, whether joint or separate accounts, responsibilities for bills, savings goals, and spending habits.
Household chores
Division of household tasks, cleaning schedules, and expectations regarding shared responsibilities.
Personal space and time
Respect for individual hobbies, alone time, and boundaries regarding personal space.
Fidelity and boundaries
Agreement on fidelity, exclusivity, and boundaries regarding interactions with others, both in-person and online.
Future plans
Discussions about long-term goals, such as marriage, children, career aspirations, and where the partners envision their relationship heading.
The outcomes of a Relationship Contract can be profound and positive. First, it promotes a deep understanding between partners, fostering open communication and clarity about each other's needs, desires, and boundaries. This clarity often leads to increased trust and mutual respect within the relationship. The creation of a Relationship Contract has the potential to set a foundation for a healthier and more harmonious partnership by providing a structured framework for handling conflicts and resolving misunderstandings.
Defining expectations and responsibilities minimizes potential sources of tension or disagreement, reducing conflicts and misunderstandings. A Relationship Contract encourages accountability and commitment. Partners become more conscious of honoring the terms they've agreed upon, fostering a sense of reliability and dedication to the relationship's well-being. Overall, the outcomes of a Relationship Contract often include strengthened trust, improved communication, a clearer understanding of each other's needs, and a more resilient foundation for a fulfilling and lasting partnership.
Why use Carepatron as your Relationship Contract app?
Carepatron is your ideal choice for practice management software designed specifically for therapists, counselors, and other mental health practitioners who may instigate the use of a Relationship Contract.
Through Carepatron's centralized workspace, you can streamline your entire practice in one comprehensive software solution, eliminating the need for costly and confusing multiple platforms just to carry out a few simple steps. Our therapy software is tailored to meet the unique needs of therapists, offering features such as medical document creation and storage, a medical billing system, secure patient online payments software, patient scheduling software, and even a telehealth platform, all in one place!
Carepatron simplifies your practice and lets you provide care services like never before. Our commitment to radicalized accessibility means that our Relationship Contract app is safe, secure, and easy to use whether you're a professional assisting with the making and upkeep of the contract or an individual filling the document out!
Deliver therapy through Carepatron and enhance your practice with a dedicated therapy EHR and scheduling software. Get started with Carepatron today and experience the benefits of efficient therapy practice management software. Sign up for a free account now to unlock your full potential!
.png)
References
Cruz, J. (2013). Marriage: More Than a Century of Change. https://www.bgsu.edu/content/dam/BGSU/college-of-arts-and-sciences/NCFMR/documents/FP/FP-13-13.pdf
Murstein, B. I., Cerreto, M., & Donald, M. G. M. (1977). A Theory and Investigation of the Effect of Exchange-Orientation on Marriage and Friendship. Journal of Marriage and Family, 39(3), 543–548. https://doi.org/10.2307/350908
Pandey, E. (2023, February 25). Marriage is on the decline in the U.S. Axios. https://www.axios.com/2023/02/25/marriage-declining-single-dating-taxes-relationships
Tagle, A., & Schneider, C. M. (2022, December 21). From housework to sex, here’s how Relationship Contracts can help couples. NPR.
Commonly asked questions
Simply use the free and downloadable template offered through Carepatron to either act as a scaffolding for a customized contract or as inspiration for the creation of your own.
Relationship contacts are used at any point in a relationship and are encouraged to be reviewed at least once a year.
This collaborative document is used with honesty and clear communication at the forefront. They are used without legal binding but act as a commitment for involved parties.
