Almost every relationship experiences conflict from time to time. However, some fights are more destructive than others. Unhealthy conflict in a relationship can be difficult to identify and can lead to long-term damage for both partners.
A healthy relationship requires open communication, mutual respect, trust, independence, curiosity, playfulness, physical and emotional intimacy, teamwork, and healthy conflict resolution. While all relationships have occasional arguments, unhealthy conflict may be a red flag that the relationship is not stable.
Signs of unhealthy conflict include personal attacks, a focus on irrelevant details, and negative emotions like anger and resentment. Unhealthy conflict also leads to a lack of compromise or resolution and can be draining for both parties.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it might be time to seek help from a mental health professional. An individual therapist can provide you with the tools to navigate your relationship and deal with conflict in a healthier way.
It is also important to set boundaries with your partner during conversations about difficult issues. For instance, you might not want to discuss sensitive topics over social media. If you notice that your partner is regularly pushing back against the boundaries you have set, it might be a sign of unhealthy conflict in your relationship. Additionally, try to avoid using sweeping generalizations like, “You always do this,” or, “You never do that.” These types of comments are not only hurtful but can also lead to an escalation of negativity and increase the level of frustration. unhealthy conflict in a relationship