How to tell the difference between a possessive partner and a caring person: 12 signs that your freedom is at risk

A healthy relationship between two people is characterized by partners caring for each other, as well as solving problems and spending leisure time together. However, if your partner is "possessive" by nature, all good initiatives from them will be excessive, and the relationship will quickly become toxic.

Health Shots writes, "Such people are characterized by a tendency to constant control, emotional manipulation, and invasion of the personal space of loved ones. All this ultimately affects the physical and mental health of the objects of their adoration, so it is extremely important to be able to distinguish between owners and just caring people."

SSPDaily prepared a list of the main signs of such partners and recommendations on how to deal with them.

Why do people show possessive instincts?

"Obsession can become a complex component of a relationship due to various emotional reasons," says psychotherapist Dr. Chandni Tugnait.

The following signs often make people "owners":

• hidden self-doubt, fear of abandonment, or emotional trauma from the past;
• fear of losing a partner;
• doubts about the stability of the partnership;
• past betrayal or neglect.

How can you tell the difference between a controlling partner?

Sometimes it seems that the attention you receive from your partner is because he or she cares deeply about you. And if you don't notice the warning signs of possessiveness in time, you will be drawn into a vortex of toxic relationships that will be difficult to get out of. Therefore, it is important to determine whether you are dating someone who, under the guise of caring, is attempting to infringe on your freedom.

Here are some obvious signs of an abusive partner:

• Constant desire for control

A controlling partner seeks to control your behavior, decisions, and interactions, leaving little room for individuality and autonomy.

• Powerless jealousy

Another warning signal is jealousy attacks at any occasion and interpretation of any of your interactions as a threat to the relationship.

• Attempts at isolation

Isolating you from friends and family is a red flag that should not be ignored. "Owners" often prevent socialization to maintain control and confidence.

• Communication monitoring

Constantly monitoring text messages, phone calls, or social media shows a lack of trust. And it is definitely an invasion of your privacy that should be stopped immediately.

• Unreasonable expectations

Demands for complete availability and attention are clearly indicative of "ownership."

• Reduction of personal space

"Owners" tend to overlook their partners' needs for personal space. They physically or emotionally invade it and cause a feeling of emotional suffocation.

• Excessive protection

The desire to protect is normal, but in a hypertrophied state, the "owner" will save you from every imaginary threat, which will limit your autonomy.

• Emotional blackmail

Ownership is characterized by manipulative tactics such as guilt or emotional blackmail. These practices force obedience and encourage dependence.

• Constant accusations

In a toxic relationship with an abuser, unfounded allegations of infidelity or guilt prevail.

• Mood swings

Being possessive is combined with sharp mood swings that cause such people to perceive threats to the relationship or, conversely, the absence of such threats.

• Emotional outbursts

The worst thing for the "owner" is to lose control over the "object". This often causes irrational reactions when their dominance in the relationship is threatened.

• Lack of faith

The basis of possessiveness is an unreasonable lack of trust in a partner.

How does a relationship with a possessive partner affect our psyche?

Such relationships are unhealthy by default, so their impact on the psyche is always destructive. Here's what you might feel in this case:

• suffocation, isolation, and self-depreciation;
• persistent stress that affects your overall well-being;
• feelings of withdrawal, emotional fatigue, increased anxiety and despair.

How to deal with an abusive partner?

Everyone wants to give their relationship a second chance. And if you want to continue dating an abusive partner, check out these tips:

• Encourage open communication.
• Consciously build intimacy and trust by sharing vulnerabilities.
• Find activities that reinforce interdependence rather than codependence.
• Encourage your partner to confront their anxieties.
• Set clear boundaries.

You can also seek help from a professional therapist to help you build a healthier and more balanced relationship.