One way to distinguish between ordinary “new relationship energy” and manipulative behavior is whether it seems to presume an inappropriate level of intimacy based on how long you’ve known the other person. However, in hindsight, it can be seen as a manipulation tactic to gain one’s trust quickly. This intense attention may seem flattering and exciting. Some people who have experienced predatory relationships report that their partners initially seemed more attentive, caring, and charming than people they’d met in the past. Intense, Excessive Interest In The Early Stages Of A Relationship However, the following warning signs may help you recognize negative attitudes or harmful intentions before they escalate. Individuals who are prone to predatory behaviors may be skilled at creating the appearance of a normal relationship in the early stages, only escalating their dangerous behavior once they’ve gained someone’s trust. Lack of concern for the well-being of othersĪccording to experts, abusive relationships often start with “seemingly minor” negative behaviors and build gradually.These characteristics include the following: Researchers have found that “psychopathic” traits, often associated with conditions like narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) or antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) - may be correlated with a tendency to see predatory sexual actions as healthy or usual. However, a few mental health conditions may increase the likelihood of predatory behaviors. Conflating abusive behavior or predatory actions with all people with a mental illness can be stigmatizing and harmful. Some people who have no diagnosable mental illness display selfish and hurtful tendencies. Mental Illness And Predatory BehaviorsĮngaging in coercive, deceptive, or abusive behaviors in a relationship is not necessarily an indicator of a mental illness. These motivations aren’t mutually exclusive, and it’s not uncommon for someone acting abusively to exploit their partner in multiple hurtful ways. Some may also be motivated by the desire for the sense of power they gain by deceiving or dominating others. Other relationship predators might seek material goods from the people they target. In romantic relationships, predatory behavior often aims to obtain sexual favors, money, or resources, regardless of the other person’s desires or consent. However, predatory behavior may look like an attempt to trick, manipulate, or control other people to get what one wants without regard for the harm it causes. There are no official diagnostic criteria to define predatory behavior. Learning to recognize these tactics when they start could help you avoid becoming entangled with someone who sees you as a means to an end. The aggressor might attempt to cut their partner off from sources of strength and support while undermining their self-confidence. Predatory actions in a relationship often start with subtle manipulations and progress to control, domination, or abuse. This behavior can result in emotional pain and may progress to physical, financial, or sexual abuse as the relationship continues. However, some individuals may seek to exploit that trust, using the outward appearance of love and affection as a tool to achieve their desires. People often wish to trust their romantic partners profoundly and look to them for emotional support. Romantic relationships often involve vulnerability. If you are facing or witnessing abuse of any kind, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 for support. Please also see our Get Help Now page for more immediate resources. If you or someone you love is experiencing abuse, contact the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Content Warning: Please be advised, the below article might mention trauma-related topics that include abuse which could be triggering to the reader.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |