In a world where dating apps, social media, and “situationships” are shaping how young people fall in and out of love, Delhi University (DU) has launched a new course that couldn’t have come at a better time. DU’s new relationship course will start in the 2025-26 academic session, offered by the Department of Psychology.
Delhi University has launched a new elective course, “Negotiating Intimate Relationships,” to help undergraduates navigate love, red flags, dating apps, and relationship stress in the digital age.
The Department of Psychology’s course has been listed on the university’s official website since 2023. It will be open to all undergraduate students, irrespective of discipline. Clearing the Class 12 examination is compulsory.
Delhi University has introduced an innovative course called “Negotiating Intimate Relationships” as a general elective for the 2025–26 academic year. Designed by the Psychology Department, it aims to equip undergraduates across all streams with critical emotional and social skills.
Key Themes and Structure of DU’s New Relationship Course
The DU new relationship course syllabus is divided into four units that together form a comprehensive approach to understanding intimate relationships.
Unit 1—The Psychology of Friendships and Intimate Relationships—examines how relationships develop, evolve, and transition into long-term bonds, such as dating and marriage.
Unit 2—Understanding Love—dives into foundational theories such as Sternberg’s Triangular Theory of Love and the Two-Factor Theory of Love, while also addressing sexuality and its role in shaping modern romance.
Unit 3—Signs of Relationships Going Sour. This segment is designed to help students identify early signs of emotional manipulation, jealousy, romantic transgressions, and even intimate partner violence.
Unit 4—Flourishing Relationships takes a solutions-oriented approach by teaching students how to foster healthy relationships, effective communication, and emotional resilience.
Beyond theory, the course promises to be highly interactive. Students will be encouraged to map their social media interactions, take part in forgiveness and self-awareness exercises, and critically examine modern love through films and real-life scenarios.
Why the DU New Relationship Course Matters
Gen Z relevance: Addresses modern issues tied to dating apps (Tinder), social media, and pop culture influences like Kabir Singh and Titanic
Tackling real consequences: Launched in response to cases of relationship-fueled violence in Delhi, some tragic and fatal, which highlighted a need for emotional education
Holistic emotional education: Fosters emotional intelligence in a formal setting to fill gaps left by traditional curricula.
Three Lectures and One Tutorial Every Week
The four-credit course will include three lectures and one tutorial every week and is tailored for students who have a better understanding of psychology. This course offers a rare academic space to discuss relations in a structured and judgment-free environment.
