Teen dating: Unfolding and Adaption
The concept of dating, especially teen dating, has been evolutionary. With time, the world went from digesting the cliché to actually normalizing it in the current times. These tender years of teenage relationships might be cool and enjoyable at times, but at the same time, if you fail to keep a rational yet emotional mindset, these would become daunting! Dating is no longer a concept trapped behind masks; therefore, it becomes even more important to acknowledge and bring to light the early signs of an unhealthy relationship. For most teens, dating serves as a valuable lesson. However, not all relationships are 'goody-good'; some actually hamper your overall well-being and mental state. In order to stay away from toxic ties, the article below shares some early signs of a toxic relationship. Take a quick gander to know what shouldn't be avoided!


What are the red flags in a relationship? 
The term 'red flag' has been put out like a mediocre everyday lingo. The real deal slides when we are actually asked about its definition. Most of us, being oblivious, have swayed away from the trend and adopted it. To elaborate, red flags can be referred to as warning signs signalling you to notice unhealthy and manipulative behaviour. In layman's terms, these are red alerts keeping you away from stepping into toxic teenage relationships.
What becomes even more scary is that, during the initial times, these signs and behavioural patterns are chosen to be hidden behind the cloud of love! This cloud, with time, gets denser and denser, thereby turning into blatant behaviours of abuse, aggression, victimization, narcissism, etc.
In order to build healthy relationships for teens, make sure you are aware of both- the red flags that you want to dodge and the green flags that you want to embrace!

Signs of a Toxic Relationship:

  1. Control and dominance: If you frequently come across situations where your partner tries to control or dominate your choices, opinions, beliefs, decisions, etc, make sure you don't avoid it. The biggest red flag in toxic relationships is over-controlling behaviour. If your partner seems to be bothered with what to wear, where you go, or how you behave, take some time to analyse that they want you to act in favour of them instead of what is best for you! Remember, a relationship works two ways; it's not a deal between a commander and a listener!

  2. Anger issues: When anger becomes a weapon in a relationship, it's time to raise the red flag! In any healthy connection, you should feel secure discussing tough topics without fearing for your safety. Toxic behaviour knows no gender – whether you're a man or a woman, using anger as an intimidation tool is never okay. We understand anger is a normal human behaviour. However, if the intensity and consistency aren't mitigated, it could turn into physical and mental abuse. A rational understanding of this will surely save you from such unhealthy relationship

  3. 'Why should I compromise' syndrome:  In order to build healthy relationships for teens, healthy compromises are a mandate. If your partner suffers from the 'Why should I compromise' syndrome, maybe it's time to rethink. If your other half isn't ready to compromise even on little things, you may find yourself over-compromising and unsatisfied. Remember, healthy adjustments are a doorway to sustainable relationships. Therefore, consideration, compromises and adjustments should come both ways!
    Remember, here, we do not glorify the act of unhealthy compromises that directly or indirectly hamper your comfort. If such situations arise, it is definitely a red alert for you!

  4. Lacking trust: Trust is the bedrock of thriving relationships. When doubt starts eroding that foundation with partners, it's a warning sign of instability. Occasional doubt is natural, but it should not overshadow our ability to have faith in the people around us to make the right choices. In healthy connections, trust is a two-way street.

  5. Abuse:  One of the most prominent signs of a toxic relationship is abuse. Abuse comes in many forms - physical, emotional, and mental. While physical abuse is more visible, emotional and mental abuse can be just as destructive over time, often leaving lasting scars like PTSD. Remember, no one has the right to make you their emotional punching bag. Problems should be addressed constructively and fairly, never with abuse. Abuse is never the answer.
Don't be the flag bearer: Healthy teenage relationship.

When you spot those relationship red flags, it's a crucial moment to hit the pause button and contemplate the true nature of your connection. Toxic behaviour often slithers in subtly, lurking in the shadows, ready to pounce in moments of vulnerability. If left unchecked, it can seize control, causing harm to us and those we care about. Nurturing self-awareness regarding these warning signs and toxic patterns is your armour, guarding against their entry into your life. Be a saviour for yourself; don't let these signs of a toxic relationship go heedless!