6 types of people to avoid getting into a relationship with
There are several types of people you should avoid getting into a romantic relationship with.
This is because they are highly draining and a relationship with them is likely to end up being toxic and damaging.
Sometimes, people attract the same types of people over and over again because they are subconsciously trying to fix the past.
But this isn't a way to develop a healthy relationship.
Rather, you should look out for any red flags early on, and get out if someone is wrong for you.
Dating is precarious at the best of times, because you never know who you're going to end up meeting. Someone may seem normal and fun over text message, and be completely alarming in person. You might have chemistry online, only to have nothing in common when you're actually sitting with each other on a first date.
A person's behaviour on dating apps can differ greatly from what they are actually like, which is why apps are rife with toxic people. Dangerous and abusive people can pretend to be everything their victims are looking for, only to drop the facade as soon as they have control.
According to therapist Marisa Peer, who spoke to INSIDER, there are six types of toxic people you should steer clear of when looking for a relationship:
- Narcissists
People with narcissistic personality disorder can never love anyone since they are self-obsessed. They only find joy in creating chaos for everyone else and feel superior in watching them crumble. To make a relationship with a narcissist work, there are many sacrifices you'll have to make - and even then there's no guarantee.
- Highly paranoid people
They are unable to relax and are usually jealous and controlling, according to Peer. Paranoid people always think someone is out to get them, or that their partner is cheating on them. Sometimes, this means they stop their partner going out with friends, or even their family.
- Controlling and jealous types
These people can't trust you and will make you account for everything. They need to be in control all the time and are very punishing when things don't go their way, Peer said.
- Extremely selfish and self-absorbed types
They can't see or factor in another point of view. They also lack empathy and emotion, so disagreements are likely to escalate explosively.
- Alcoholics
They are unable to be honest, both with themselves and anyone else. This is the same for anyone with any sort of addiction. They need to be able to love themselves before they can truly love anyone else. Before this point, any relationship with an addict is likely to end up being codependent.
- People who have a toxic relationship with their exes and families
They show an inability to be accountable for their own actions. A toxic relationship in this sense could be a highly erratic one, or an unhealthy attachment. Either way, you don't want to get caught up in it.