Respect should be at the forefront in any healthy relationship, and when it disappears, it’s not long before things start to go downhill.
If you notice certain behaviours cropping up from your partner that were never there before, it could be down to a loss of respect. Why that might have happened, only you (or they!) can answer, but once you realise what’s happening, it’s important to address it immediately.
1. They constantly interrupt you when you’re speaking.
If your partner always cuts you off mid-sentence or talks over you, it’s a clear sign they don’t value your thoughts or opinions. They’re clearly not interested in what you have to say, and they believe their voice is more important than yours. In a respectful relationship, both partners should have equal opportunity to express themselves.
2. They make important decisions without consulting you.
When your partner starts making major choices that affect both of you without considering you or asking how you feel, it’s a red flag. Whether it’s financial decisions, holiday plans, or changes to your living situation, unilateral decision-making shows they don’t consider your perspective important. A respectful partner will value your opinion and include you in the decision-making process.
3. They criticise you in front of other people.
Public criticism is a particularly hurtful form of disrespect. If your partner belittles you, makes fun of you, or points out your flaws in front of friends, family, or even strangers, it’s a sign they’ve lost respect for you. A caring partner should have your back in public and address any issues privately.
4. They’re always on their phone when you’re talking to them.
Constant phone-checking during conversations is more than just annoying—it’s disrespectful. If your partner can’t put down their device and give you their full attention when you’re speaking, it shows they don’t value your time or what you have to say. Respectful partners make an effort to be present and engaged during conversations.
5. They dismiss your emotions as overreactions.
When you express your feelings, does your partner brush them off or tell you you’re being too sensitive? Sorry, but emotional invalidation is a form of disrespect. A respectful partner will acknowledge your feelings, even if they don’t fully understand or agree with them, rather than dismissing them outright.
6. They regularly break promises or commitments to you.
Consistently failing to follow through on promises, big or small, demonstrates a lack of respect for you and your time. Whether it’s cancelling plans at the last minute or not doing tasks they’ve agreed to, this behaviour shows they don’t prioritise their commitments to you. Respect involves honouring your word and valuing the other person’s expectations.
7. They compare you to other people in negative and/or offensive ways.
If your partner often points out how you don’t measure up to their friends, exes, or even celebrities, it’s a clear sign of disrespect. These comparisons are not only hurtful but also show that they don’t appreciate you for who you are. A respectful partner celebrates your unique qualities rather than wishing you were more like someone else.
8. They use your insecurities against you in arguments.
Bringing up your vulnerabilities or past mistakes during disagreements is a low blow. If your partner weaponises the personal information you’ve shared with them, it shows a profound lack of respect. Respectful partners create a safe space for vulnerability and don’t use your weaknesses to gain the upper hand in conflicts.
9. They never apologise or admit when they’re wrong.
A partner who can’t own up to their mistakes or offer a sincere apology doesn’t respect you enough to take accountability. This often goes hand-in-hand with always needing to be right. Respect involves acknowledging when you’ve messed up and making amends, not maintaining a false sense of superiority.
10. They disregard your boundaries.
Whether it’s physical, emotional, or digital boundaries, a respectful partner will honour the limits you set. If your partner consistently pushes past your comfort zones, shows up unannounced when you’ve asked for space, or snoops through your personal belongings, they’re showing a clear lack of respect for your autonomy and privacy.
11. They mock or belittle your interests and hobbies.
Your passions and interests are part of what makes you unique. A partner who makes fun of or dismisses the things you enjoy is showing disrespect for your individuality. Even if they don’t share your enthusiasm, a respectful partner will support your interests or at least refrain from putting them down.
12. They never ask for your opinion or advice.
In a respectful relationship, partners value each other’s perspectives. If your partner never asks for your input on anything, from what to have for dinner to major life decisions, it could indicate they don’t respect your judgment or think your opinion is worth considering. As a result, you end up feeling undervalued and unimportant in the relationship.
13. They flirt with other people in front of you.
Openly flirting with other people when you’re present is not just inconsiderate—it’s disrespectful. They don’t respect your feelings and the boundaries of your relationship. A respectful partner will make you feel secure and valued, not leave you questioning their commitment.
14. They refuse to compromise or meet you halfway.
Relationships require give and take. If your partner always insists on having things their way and never bends to accommodate your needs or preferences, it’s a sign they don’t respect you as an equal in the relationship. Respect involves recognising that both partners’ needs are important and being willing to find middle ground.
15. They speak to you with contempt.
The tone of voice and choice of words can speak volumes about respect. If your partner uses a condescending tone, rolls their eyes at you, or speaks to you with obvious disdain, it’s a glaring sign of disrespect. Respectful communication, even during disagreements, should still maintain a basic level of courtesy and kindness.
