4 Subtle signs of a parasitic partner

IF you've ever gotten into a fight with your partner that seemed to come out of left field, it probably didn't. Many fights are the result of a recurring issue that's snowballed into a larger problem. Oftentimes, things are left unsaid until — aha! The fight.

The tricky part is that there are subtle ways of upsetting your partner without even being aware of it. It's up to both people to be mindful of any potential triggers they could be guilty of pulling and to address concerns as they arise. Because while it's easy to overlook the little things, they're usually the biggest relationship stressors.

 See below the subtle signs of a parasitic partner who could be sabotaging relationships.

1. They don't give their full attention

While their partner is talking to them, they're only half listening, responding to an email on their phone, or glancing at the TV screen behind them.

Even if they're not trying to be rude, they're showing their partner that whatever else they're doing is more important than whatever they have to say.

Be considerate and give them their undivided attention. They're also more likely to avoid a future fight or misunderstanding if they're all ears now.

2. They won't help until they're asked

Just because their SO doesn't explicitly ask for a hand doesn't mean they wouldn't appreciate the offer. By sitting on the sidelines, they're only indicating that they don't care.

Instead of making favours seem like a burden, take the initiative to provide their assistance before being asked to do so. Because by then, it's already too late.

A 2023 study explained that while potentially challenging, asking for help from a partner is crucial for a healthy and fulfilling relationship. It fosters trust, intimacy, and mutual support.

3. They don't try to see the importance of things that don't interest them

Ever gotten into fights that all started with "What's the big deal?!?" The subject matter itself may not be that significant, but it's usually the fact that one partner isn't willing to understand the other's perspective that sparks the argument.

Even if it's silly as their SO asking which outfit they should wear to dinner, give them their thoughtful opinion instead of an eye roll. It's something they care about and value their opinion on.

Rather than creating unnecessary tension, try to be engaged, even if it's about something they don't quite understand. That's real love.

4. They don't always come through

A good partner can be characterised in several ways, but being reliable is up there. Not only is reliability a good trait to nurture in general but what they say is also how they build trust with others.

Even if it's something as small as a dinner reservation, honour it. Each time they let their partner down, they're proving that they're not dependable, and that's never a good quality to have.

Unreliable behaviour can create emotional distance as partners hesitate to rely on their partner or share vulnerabilities.

Source: yourtango