7 Major Signs You are in a Possessive Relationship

A possessive relationship is a type of relationship in which one person tries to control or dominate the other by exerting ownership over them. This can manifest in various ways, such as controlling behavior, jealousy, or attempts to isolate the other person from friends and family.

In a possessive relationship, one partner may feel entitled to control the other's behavior, thoughts, and feelings. This can lead to a lack of trust and communication between partners, as well as emotional and psychological abuse.

Possessiveness in a relationship can stem from a variety of factors, such as insecurity, fear of abandonment, or a desire for power and control. It can also be a result of past experiences, such as trauma or childhood attachment issues.

It's important to note that possessive behavior is not healthy or normal in a relationship and can lead to long-term emotional harm for both partners. Building a strong and healthy relationship requires mutual respect, trust, and open communication.

# They get irrationally jealous

Feeling a slight pang of jealousy when you observe your partner being hit on by someone attractive is understandable. However, in a healthy relationship, you would typically trust your partner and not dwell on it. On the other hand, in a possessive relationship, this initial feeling of jealousy can quickly escalate.

Your partner may falsely accuse you of having an interest in someone simply because you had a conversation with them. They may feel envious of you working late, perceiving that your job is receiving more of your attention than they are. Essentially, they may experience jealousy toward anyone or anything that detracts from their exclusive attention.

# They love-bomb

Love bombing is a tactic used to win someone over by showering them with extravagant gestures, such as giving lavish gifts, sending flowers, or being excessively romantic from the outset. Although it may initially seem charming, it frequently occurs too soon, before the person has the opportunity to get to know the love bomber.

Unfortunately, love bombing is frequently a warning sign of future abuse and manipulation. The excessive attention can make you feel thrilled and flattered at first, but it may ultimately devolve into something unsettling and perilous once you become involved with the love bomber.

# They show up out of the blue

While it can be heartwarming for your partner to surprise you with a bottle of wine after a tough day, it can be concerning if they frequently arrive unexpectedly for no apparent reason other than missing you.

Although your partner may disguise this behavior as a sign of their affection, it is actually a form of monitoring you.

# You feel guilty for being happy

Suppose you reach out to your partner to share good news about a promotion or a wonderful day. In that case, they might respond by accusing you of bragging and bring you down by speaking negatively about your accomplishments. They might even criticize your job and claim it's affecting your relationship by taking up too much of your time.

This behavior is often because they have difficulty being happy for you when it doesn't directly involve them. Additionally, they may even disparage your loved ones and friends when they have positive news because it draws your attention away from them.

# They don’t like giving you space

Personal space and boundaries are essential components of any healthy relationship. However, in a possessive relationship, these concepts are often disregarded.

For instance, if you express a need for a day to unwind and recharge, a possessive partner may question why you cannot relax in their company. They may insist on spending all your free time together, even when you desire to spend time with your friends.

# They need to know your schedule

In a possessive relationship, your partner may demand to know your whereabouts, destination, and companionship whenever you venture out without them. Although they may phrase these inquiries innocuously, such a level of scrutiny is unnecessary in a healthy relationship.

Additionally, they may demand that you share your location with them through your mobile device. If you attempt to set boundaries and uphold your privacy, they may accuse you of dishonesty to pressure you into divulging such information.

# They don’t encourage your growth or success

In a healthy relationship, partners strive to inspire, motivate, and support each other to become better, more fulfilled individuals. They encourage each other's personal growth and happiness. However, in a possessive relationship, the opposite is often true.

A possessive partner may undermine your progress and attempt to restrict you instead of encouraging you to expand your horizons.