toxic relationship: causes and signs of a toxic relationship

Many toxic relationship habits are baked into our culture and we end up accepting them as normal. The idea of toxic relationship gets thrown around a lot, but what exactly is a toxic relationship? By definition, a toxic relationship is a relationship characterized by behaviors on the part of the toxic partner that are emotionally and, not infrequently, physically damaging to their partner. A toxic relationship is characterized by insecurity, self-centeredness, dominance and control.

Causes and signs of a toxic in a relationship

There are several causes and signs of a toxic relationship, which can be inter-woven i.e. can be used to replace each other.

Lack of support

In a relationship where your goals, dreams and decision aren’t being supported by your partner can be considered to be toxic. In an ideal relationship setting, your partner should be your backbone and support you in all endeavors.

Healthy relationships are based on a mutual desire to see each succeed in life, but when things turn toxic, every achievement becomes a competition.

read more on: marriage reveals the other side of a coin

Toxic communication

Communication is important in having a loving and lasting relationship, but when that communication becomes toxic, every other thing falls apart.

Instead of treating each with kindness, most of your conversations are filled with sarcasm, criticism and hostility which may lead to both of you avoiding talking to each other.

Jealousy

While it is normal to experience jealousy from time to time, but it can become an issue if you can’t get yourself to think or feel positively about your partner.

Controlling behavior

Questioning where you are all the time or becoming overly upset when you don’t immediately  answer are signs of controlling behavior, which can contribute to toxicity in a relationship. In some cases, these attempts of control can be a sign of abuse.

Resentment

Holding on to grudges and letting them fester chips away at intimacy. Over time, frustration or resentment can build up and make a smaller chasm much bigger.

Ignoring your needs

Going along with whatever your partner wants to do, even when it goes against your wishes or comfort level, is a sure sign of toxicity. You and your partner should both contribute in decision making, not just one person calling the shots. Don’t be the yes sir/yes ma’am kind of person putting aside and ignoring your own needs.

Insecurity

Insecure partners have the tendency to harbor a deep sense of self-doubt. This self-doubt often leads to the person overanalyzing everything in a relationship, from a few uttered words to their partner’s body language.

Hot temper

This is one that many of us have either experienced or have a witness to. People that are hot-headed continue to have cycles of anger, regrets and shame. Too often, this cycle involves impulsive behavior directed towards their partner – and hurtful words that they come to lament sincerely.

Partners with a hot temper are difficult to get along with, as their other half may feel the need to “walk on eggshells” to avoid triggering another temper tantrum.

I see a lot of blog articles and popular personality stating that a toxic relationship can be redeemed, well that is not entirely true. If you find yourself in a toxic relationship, quit on time before it gets physically dangerous for your well-being and move on with your life.