Behavioral Characteristics of an Unhealthy Relationship Criticism Embarrassment Put-downs Low self-esteem Emotional pain Controlling behavior

Behaviors Seen in Unhealthy Relationships One person controls the other; tells him or her what to do, what to wear, or with whom to hang out. One person forces the other to drop relationships with friends and family members. One person becomes obsessive and allows the other little or no privacy.

Unhealthy Relationships Can Get Worse Instead of Better There may be threats of physical violence. Physical violence is present: pushing, grabbing, slapping, or hitting the person or objects of personal value to that individual. There are more bad times than good times.

Questions to Ask If You Think You May Be in an Unhealthy Relationship Do you feel less confident when you are with the other person? Have you been told by people you trust they are worried about your safety? Do you feel as though you are “walking on egg shells?” Do you worry about everything you do or say? Are you the victim of sexual abuse?