Every relationship is unique, but there are certain behaviors that can make a relationship toxic. Toxic relationships can be emotionally draining and unhealthy for both partners.

If you’re in a toxic relationship, it’s important to identify the behaviors that are causing the toxicity in order to address them. Here are 10 things couples do that make their relationship toxic:.

1. Lack of Communication

Communication is the foundation of any healthy relationship. When communication breaks down, misunderstandings can arise and resentments can build.

In a toxic relationship, communication is often characterized by criticism, defensiveness, and stonewalling. Partners may avoid talking about their feelings, or they may blame each other for their problems. If you’re in a toxic relationship, it’s important to address communication issues in order to move forward.

2. Constant Criticism

In a healthy relationship, partners are supportive of each other and offer constructive criticism when needed. In a toxic relationship, however, criticism can be constant and relentless.

Partners may criticize each other for everything from their appearance to their personality traits. Over time, constant criticism can erode self-esteem and damage the relationship.

3. Lack of Trust

Healthy relationships are built on trust. When one partner doesn’t trust the other, it can lead to insecurity, jealousy, and resentment. In a toxic relationship, trust is often lacking.

Partners may accuse each other of cheating, lying, or other forms of deception. If trust has been broken in a relationship, it’s important to address the underlying issues in order to rebuild trust.

4. Emotional Abuse

Emotional abuse is a form of behavior that is intended to control, dominate, or manipulate a partner. It can take many forms, including criticism, manipulation, intimidation, and humiliation.

Emotional abuse can be difficult to recognize, but it can be just as damaging as physical abuse. If you’re experiencing emotional abuse in your relationship, it’s important to seek help.

5. Lack of Boundaries

Healthy relationships have boundaries that are respected by both partners. When boundaries are not established or respected, partners may feel overwhelmed, violated, or resentful.

In a toxic relationship, partners may ignore each other’s boundaries, or they may lack the ability to set their own boundaries. It is important for partners to set boundaries in order to maintain a healthy relationship.

6. Lack of Support

In a healthy relationship, partners are supportive of each other’s goals, dreams, and aspirations. In a toxic relationship, however, partners may criticize or undermine each other’s accomplishments.

They may also fail to provide emotional support during difficult times. If you’re in a toxic relationship, it’s important to seek support from friends or family members outside the relationship.

7. Constant Fighting

In a healthy relationship, couples may disagree from time to time, but they are able to resolve conflicts in a constructive manner. In a toxic relationship, however, conflicts can escalate into constant fighting.

Partners may use fighting as a way to control each other or to avoid dealing with deeper issues. If you find that you are constantly fighting with your partner, it’s important to address the underlying issues.

8. Lack of Equality

In a healthy relationship, both partners are equal and share the responsibilities and rewards of the relationship. In a toxic relationship, one partner may dominate the other or make all of the decisions.

This can lead to feelings of resentment, anger, and powerlessness. It is important for both partners to feel equal in the relationship.

9. Lack of Intimacy

Healthy relationships are built on emotional and physical intimacy. In a toxic relationship, however, intimacy is often lacking. Partners may avoid physical contact or emotional closeness, or they may use intimacy as a way to control each other.

If intimacy is lacking in your relationship, it’s important to address the underlying issues.

10. Lack of Respect

Respect is the foundation of any healthy relationship. In a toxic relationship, however, partners may disrespect each other in a variety of ways. They may ignore each other’s feelings or needs, or they may belittle each other in front of others.

If respect is lacking in your relationship, it’s important to address the underlying issues in order to build a healthy and respectful relationship.

Conclusion

Relationships take effort, but they should never be toxic. If you’re in a toxic relationship, it’s important to identify the behaviors that are causing the toxicity and to address them.

By recognizing the signs of a toxic relationship, you can take steps to build a healthier, more fulfilling relationship.