In a bold move, Delhi University (DU) has introduced a new psychology elective titled Negotiating Intimate Relationships starting in the 2025–26 academic session. The course aims to equip students with tools to navigate the complex world of love, friendships, and emotional boundaries. As young adults increasingly grapple with digital intimacy, social media pressures, and confusing relationship dynamics, the course couldn’t have come at a more critical time.

Bringing Relationship Literacy to Classrooms
Experts believe that relationships can, in fact, be taught at least to a meaningful extent. Delhi-based relationship coaches Ruchi Ruuh and Dr. Chandni Tugnait argue that the course has the potential to foster a generation of emotionally aware individuals. It can demystify conflict, introduce communication tools, and build a vocabulary for expressing feelings. Like learning about nutrition doesn’t guarantee fitness, learning about love won’t make students immune to heartbreak but it can build awareness, empathy, and resilience.

Consent, Communication, and Early Emotional Training
Beyond dating, the course covers crucial topics like emotional safety, consent, digital relationships, and conflict resolution. Experts stress the importance of introducing relationship education earlier ideally in school so students can internalize concepts like boundaries and respectful communication before negative patterns form. Role-play, scenario analysis, and peer discussions can help move these lessons from theory to practice. While critics say love can’t be taught, DU’s initiative is a powerful first step in making emotional literacy a formal part of education. Parents, too, welcome the shift provided it’s implemented with seriousness and depth.