We've all come across them - people who make our lives miserable with their negativity, drama, and unhealthy behavior.

While relationships can be challenging at times, there's a difference between normal ups and downs and toxic behavior.

The best way you and your partner can deal with them is to avoid them altogether, but that's easier said than done.

So, what exactly are toxic traits, and how can you and your partner recognize them?

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Here are a few red flags to watch out for:

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1. Toxic Communication: A form of interaction that is harmful and damaging to your partner. This can include name-calling, manipulation, or sarcasm, and it can lead to mistrust and increased stress towards your partner.

2. Lack of Trust: Do you and your partner tend to doubt each other constantly? Lack of trust may come from past broken promises or lies that may set the foundation for insecurity, and it affects the foundation of honesty and security that’s needed for a healthy relationship. Be careful with trust!

3. Parasitic Relationship: Do you find yourself taking advantage of your partner financially or emotionally? Do you constantly ask them for too many favors and not pay them back? Parasitic relationships are one-sided and are an unhealthy dynamic, as your partner may feel drained from the feeling of being used.

4. Pathological Lying: The act of repeatedly lying to one’s partner in order to manipulate or control them; This is a harmful way or eroding trust in a relationship. You may feel guilty about the lies you’ve maintained, and your partner can feel hurt and betrayed once they find out about the lies.

5. Control & Manipulation: Lying, guilt-tripping, gaslighting and isolating are methods of controlling your partner, and they play with your partner’s emotions and thoughts and leave them feeling isolated and fearful. You may feel guilt and shame in your relationship as well.

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So, how can you and your partner deal with these toxic traits?

Here are a few tips:

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1. Trust your gut: If your partner makes you feel uncomfortable or drained, there's probably a good reason for it. Pay attention to your instincts and don't ignore them.

2. Set boundaries: Let your partner know, and let your partner communicate with you what behavior is acceptable and what isn't. Learning to listen actively, being honest and transparent with your partner, keeping promises and being open to their feedback without being reactive are good places to start.

3. Surround yourself with positive people: Surround yourself with individuals who uplift and support you. Having a strong support system can help counteract the negativity of toxic traits.

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In conclusion, toxic traits in relationships can be draining and damaging, but by recognizing toxic traits and taking steps to break free, you and your partner can learn to find ways to deal with those toxic traits. 

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You got this! 

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3 Point Summary:

  • Toxic individuals can bring negativity, drama, and unhealthy behavior into our lives.
  • Red flags for toxic traits include negativity, manipulation, selfishness, jealousy, and inconsiderate behavior.
  • To avoid being affected by toxicity, trust your gut, set boundaries, and surround yourself with positive people.

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Have a healthier relationship with your partner just by downloading Couply on Android or Apple! Couply offers a variety of relationship questions, couple's quizzes, expert articles, and even games that you and your partner can enjoy together while building a stronger relationship.

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