Trust is important in any relationship. If it is damaged, it can make people feel unsure and uneasy.
It’s sad, but cheating and dishonesty happen more often than we consider. According to Techopedia, 21% of people in committed relationships admit to cheating, compared to 16% of married couples. No matter what kind of relationship it is, 64% of people feel bad about having an affair.
But how can you tell if the person you’re in a relationship with is untrustworthy?
This guide will help you identify ten key signs that could indicate a harmful relationship with someone you can’t trust.
Key Signs of Distrust in Your Relationship
Here are ten key warning signs that you may be in a relationship with someone who does not prioritize your well-being.
- Inconsistent Stories and Lies
If your partner often changes their memories of events or shares stories that seem inconsistent, it’s a warning sign. Telling small lies may appear innocent, yet they can gradually damage the trust in your relationship. Regular contradictions, even on minor issues, indicate underlying dishonesty.
Did you know that around 92% of people in romantic relationships admit to lying to their partners? This shows that dishonesty is quite common, even in relationships where trust is supposed to be really important.
If someone has trouble keeping their details accurate, it may indicate they are hiding something.
- Secretive Behavior
Open communication is crucial in any good relationship. If your partner keeps many secrets, especially about their phone, social media, or money, it could mean they’re not being honest with you. If someone avoids talking about where they’ve been or who they spend time with, they might hide more than just basic details about themselves.
- Avoids Difficult Conversations
If your partner avoids having meaningful conversations or gets defensive when you ask about their past, it could mean they are keeping secrets. Good communication is vital in a relationship; avoiding challenging talks might stop you from knowing the truth. They might prevent these talks because they’re worried about being caught lying or revealing they’re not proud of.
- Unexplained Absences
Ignoring someone for no good reason and frequently disappearing without explanation are signs that your partner may need to be more trustworthy. If your partner’s absences make you feel stressed or worried, it’s understandable. Not knowing where they are or what they’re doing can lead to suspicion, making it hard to trust them.
- History of Dishonesty
If your partner has a history of being dishonest or unfaithful in past relationships, it could mean that this is a pattern of behavior for them. While people can change, their past actions might give you an idea of what to expect in the future.
If you suspect that your partner may not be entirely truthful about their past, seeking the assistance of a professional private investigator can help you uncover the facts and make informed decisions about your relationship. Trust is not the only hope; it is built on honesty and integrity.
- Gaslighting or Manipulation
Gaslighting happens when someone tries to mess with your mind and make you doubt what you know is true. If your partner often tells you that things you saw or heard didn’t happen or makes you feel like you’re overreacting when you try to talk to them about something they lied about, they might be trying to manipulate you. This can shake your confidence and make you feel you’re going crazy for not trusting them, even when you have good reasons to doubt them.
- Frequent Flirting or Emotional Affairs
Pay attention if your partner often flirts with others or seems emotionally close to someone else, even if they claim it’s innocent. This kind of emotional unfaithfulness can be just as damaging as physical cheating because it shows a lack of commitment and respect. When your partner constantly crosses boundaries with others, it can make you feel insecure and erode the trust in your relationship.
- Constant Blame Shifting
Trusting someone who doesn’t take responsibility for their actions can be tricky. If they always blame others for their mistakes or lies and then refuse to own up to it, it can create a toxic environment where you start doubting yourself. This behavior destroys trust and makes it difficult to have a healthy relationship.
- Overly Defensive or Aggressive When Questioned
A trustworthy partner must be open and honest, even when discussing complex topics. If your partner gets defensive or angry when you ask simple questions, it could mean they’re trying to hide something. Strong reactions are often used to steer away from the truth and stop you from digging deeper. If every conversation turns into an argument, looking into what’s going on is essential.
- Constantly Changing the Subject
It could indicate that your partner is dishonest if they often change the subject during essential talks. Avoiding discussions about important things like your relationship, plans, or their past might mean they’re hiding something from you. This could leave you wondering about critical parts of your life or relationship.
Conclusion
Determining if your partner is dishonest can be difficult, mainly when you’re emotionally invested. But it’s vital to prioritize your well-being. Pay attention to your instincts and any behavior that doesn’t feel right. If you’re struggling with trust, it might be a good idea to reconsider your relationship.
