How To Stop Entering Into Unhealthy Relationships
If you often find yourself entering into unhealthy relationships, it is time to find out what is causing you to engage in this behavior. You might simply think that there aren't any good ones left, but you may not realize that you are choosing partners who are likely to abuse. You will need to learn more about yourself and identify the red flags to avoid unhealthy relationships.
Pay Attention To Common Red Flags
One of the most common reasons why individuals continue to enter unhealthy relationships is that they have become accustomed to certain traits in others that should be red flags. Conversely, those who often are not in unhealthy relationships identify these red flags and avoid them. Red flags that indicate you should stay away include: aggression, the need for control, a tendency toward manipulation, constant criticism, volatility, irresponsibility and dishonesty.
Pay attention to the family background of the individual whom you are entering into a relationship with. Many abusers learn how to be abusive after having been abused themselves. Just because an individual has come from a horrible background, that doesn't mean that they can't come to terms with their background and overcome it. However, this often requires therapy and a great deal of self-knowledge.
Listen To Trusted Friends And Family Members
If you continue to enter into bad relationships, you may want to listen more to trusted friends and family members because you are having a difficult time picking up on the red flags. If you have a friend who is usually in healthy relationships, ask him or her about his or her opinion on your partner. This can provide you with a fresh perspective that can help you see what your heart does not want to see.
Understand The Underlying Psychological Reason For Your Choices
Entering into a healthy relationship usually requires that you be vulnerable. However, many individuals are afraid of the experience of vulnerability and would rather form relationships that are based on form rather than closeness. For example, a couple may focus on the things that they actually do together rather than talking and relating. To avoid a relationship with intimacy, you may find yourself seeking out partners who do not expect this in a relationship, which often includes abusers.
Speak With A Mental Health Professional
If you still find yourself regularly in toxic relationships, you may need to speak with a therapist or mental health professional, like the ones at Dr. Stephen Brown & Associates, to find out why you are drawn to these types of relationships. It is easy to blame others, but the common factor in these relationships is yourself.
Share