Delhi University is taking an innovative step to address the emotional and psychological challenges young people face in today’s digital age. From the 2025–26 academic session, DU's Department of Psychology is offering a new undergraduate elective titled Negotiating Intimate Relationships. The course is designed to help students understand and manage love, dating, friendships, emotional boundaries, and toxic behaviors especially as dating apps and social media shape relationship expectations.
The course stands out for blending theoretical knowledge with real-life application. It includes film analysis, debates, and psychological tools to allow students to reflect on their own experiences and improve their emotional intelligence. Experts at DU believe that this program is essential not just for students’ love lives, but for their overall mental health and life skills.
Here’s a quick overview of the course details:
| Course Name | Negotiating Intimate Relationships |
|---|---|
| University | Delhi University |
| Department | Psychology |
| Academic Session | Starting 2025–26 |
| Credit Structure | 4-credit elective |
| Eligibility | Open to all undergraduate students |
| Weekly Sessions | 3 Lectures + 1 Tutorial |
| Topics Covered | Love, friendships, red flags, emotional boundaries, toxic behavior, dating app culture |
| Learning Tools | Film analysis (Kabir Singh, Titanic), group debates, Sternberg’s Love Scale |
| Course Goals | Improve emotional intelligence, manage stress, understand modern relationship dynamics |
The course is part of a broader initiative that includes new electives like Media Psychology and Psychology of Adjustment, reflecting DU’s growing focus on mental health and real-world relevance. Faculty members hope this course will not only prepare students for healthier relationships but also reduce the rising number of emotional and violent incidents linked to relationship stress. By combining psychology with popular culture and interactive learning, Delhi University is redefining how academic institutions can support student well-being in today's complex relationship landscape.
