He says, “ If you’re in a relationship that’s making you feel bad about yourself, it could indicate a sign of toxicity”. Photo Courtesy: iStock
1. Criticism and cheating
Persistent criticism from one partner is a sign of toxicity. This can be verbal, emotional or even physical in nature. Moreover, some partners may even cross the line and resort to cheating or infidelity, leading to further deterioration of the relationship.
2. Lack of respect
A fundamental requirement of any healthy relationship is respect. If one partner continually disrespects the other, it’s an indication that the relationship is in deep trouble.
3. Unhealthy communication
Good communication is essential for any relationship to thrive. In a toxic relationship, communication is often littered with insults, put-downs and tension. This can often become an endless cycle of misunderstandings and hurt feelings, which spiral out of control and damage the relationship.
4. Gaslighting
This is a subtly manipulative tactic wherein one partner tries to make the other doubt their thoughts and feelings. This will involve questioning their memory, accusing them of being paranoid or having a mental health issue and probably lying to them in order to undermine their sense of reality.
5. Feeling of being ignored
Little or no attention can be just as damaging as constant criticism, although it can be much harder to detect. A partner neglecting their partner’s needs can leave them feeling unwanted and invisible, creating an even deeper emotional hole that can be impossible to fill.
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