Be Aware of These Toxic Traits in a Relationship

A relationship doesn’t turn toxic overnight. It is typically a gradual process. Little things that are overlooked and forgiven can become part of a repeated cycle. Unless physical abuse is present, toxic traits in a relationship are red flags to overcome as a couple with professional help to break the cycle.

10 Toxic Traits in a Relationship

As you read through the list of 10 toxic traits in a relationship, consider if they sound familiar. Look for repeated patterns of behavior. Everyone has bad days, so one incident may not mean you’re in a toxic relationship. Take the time to look at the list objectively. If you need help, speak to a counselor about noticeable toxic traits in a relationship.

• Controlling Your Every Move – They control who you talk to and text, where you go, what you wear, and the finances. You may need to rely on them for transportation and food.
• Possessiveness That Turns Scary – It may start as jealousy, but moves into possessiveness that turns scary with accusations and threats, not only toward you, but toward other people.
• Pushing You Towards Isolation – They create division in families and friend circles to isolate you. They may spread lies to make you not want to be around a specific group.
• No Respect for Boundaries – They dismiss your feelings and ignore your boundaries. They feel these “rules” don’t apply to them and take offense.
• Repeated Betrayal – They insult you, lie about you, or cheat on you. Once caught, they own up to it and beg forgiveness, then repeat the pattern once they are secure that you won’t leave.
• Has You on Edge – No one should have to walk on eggshells around someone they love. Being anxious and depressed over a relationship will lead to chronic stress, inflammation, and a host of mental and physical issues.
• Uses Emotional Tactics to Get Their Way – They prey on your emotional attachment and use it as a weapon. They may give you the silent treatment, withhold affection, or threaten you to get their way.
• Blame Is Placed on You – They rarely take personal responsibility. Instead, they place the blame on you and others for their bad behavior. They dredge up your past (not theirs) to show that you cannot be trusted on your own or that you are not good enough.
• Critical of Your Every Move – They speak condescendingly and criticize everything you do. They might call you names, curse, or insult you for not knowing how to do something or moving too slowly.
• Withholds Support – They withhold support from you over goals or milestones reached, such as a job promotion. Their insecurity makes them jealous, and to feel powerful, they dismiss your achievements.

Toxic traits in a relationship aren’t necessarily the end. If your partner wants to change their behavior, consult a counselor. Make it clear to your significant other that you will not tolerate disrespect and that you want the relationship to progress, but that it’s time for professional help.

Relationship Counseling Is Only a Call Away

Toxic traits in a relationship can lower your self-esteem and confidence. Healthy relationships do not leave you feeling like you are walking on eggshells, full of anxiety, and afraid to disappoint your partner. Relationship counseling is only a call or click away. Contact us today to get started.