35 Behaviors That Are Major Signs of Disrespect from Your Partner

Let’s be real—love isn’t supposed to feel like walking on eggshells. If you’re constantly questioning whether your partner respects you, that little voice in your head might be onto something.

Disrespect in a relationship doesn’t always show up with flashing lights and dramatic arguments. Sometimes, it’s quiet, subtle, and easy to brush off—until it becomes a pattern you can’t ignore.

From eye rolls that sting more than words to the “jokes” that aren’t really funny, we’re diving into 35 behaviors that scream disrespect (even if they’re disguised as “no big deal”). You deserve better—let’s talk about it.

1. Constant Interruptions

Ever been in a situation where you’re sharing something important, and your partner just keeps cutting you off? It’s like they can’t wait to jump in with their own thoughts, completely disregarding what you have to say. This can leave you feeling unheard and unimportant. If this happens regularly, it might be a sign that they don’t value your perspective as much as their own.

In a healthy relationship, both partners should feel like they’re on equal footing. It should be a give-and-take, not a competition to see who can speak the loudest or longest. If you’re experiencing constant interruptions, it might be time to have a chat about how this makes you feel.

Sometimes people interrupt without realizing the impact. Bringing attention to this behavior can be a chance for your partner to change and improve communication. But if they dismiss your feelings, it’s worth considering how much respect they truly have for you.

2. Ignoring Your Opinions

You know that feeling when you share something you deeply care about, and your partner just shrugs or brushes it off like it’s no big deal? This dismissive attitude can feel incredibly hurtful. It’s as if your thoughts don’t matter, erasing your voice from the conversation.

In any partnership, mutual respect is essential. Each person’s opinion should be valued, even if there are disagreements. Listening and considering each other’s views are parts of what makes a relationship grow stronger. When your partner consistently ignores your opinions, it can create a significant emotional gap.

Addressing this behavior is crucial. Sit down with your partner and express how this makes you feel. Sometimes, all it takes is a heartfelt conversation to open their eyes. If they continue to disregard your feelings, though, it might be a deeper issue that needs attention.

3. Public Criticism

Nothing stings quite like being criticized in front of others, especially by someone who is supposed to support and uplift you. Public criticism can be particularly damaging, as it not only hurts your feelings but also embarrasses you in front of friends or family.

This behavior can signal a lack of empathy and respect. A supportive partner should protect your dignity, not tear you down for others to see. If your partner often criticizes you publicly, it’s crucial to talk about how it affects you.

Discussing the importance of private conversations for grievances can help rebuild trust and understanding. However, if this pattern continues despite your efforts to communicate, it may be a sign of deeper issues that need addressing.

4. Dismissive Body Language

Have you ever noticed your partner rolling their eyes or crossing their arms when you’re speaking? Even if words aren’t exchanged, body language can scream disrespect. Such dismissive gestures can make you feel belittled and trivialized.

Body language is a powerful form of communication, sometimes speaking louder than words. In a loving relationship, both partners should strive to be open and attentive, showing that they care about what the other is saying. When one partner exhibits dismissive body language, it can be a red flag of underlying disrespect.

Talking with your partner about how these gestures make you feel can open the door to healthier communication. It’s important they understand the impact of non-verbal cues and work together to foster a more respectful environment.

5. Silent Treatment

The silent treatment can feel like torture when you’re on the receiving end. Your partner’s refusal to communicate leaves you in emotional limbo, unsure of what went wrong or how to fix it. It’s a passive-aggressive way to exert control, often used to avoid dealing with issues directly.

Healthy communication involves talking through problems, not avoiding them by shutting down. If your partner frequently resorts to the silent treatment, it can create a toxic cycle of resentment and misunderstanding.

Encouraging open dialogue and expressing how this behavior affects you can help break the cycle. It’s essential for both partners to feel heard and respected, fostering a nurturing and supportive relationship. If the silent treatment persists, professional guidance might be beneficial.

6. Using Sarcasm

Sarcasm can be playful, but when used excessively or inappropriately, it can become a weapon. If your partner uses sarcasm to mock or belittle you, it can chip away at your self-esteem. It’s as if they’re hiding behind humor to mask their true feelings, leaving you feeling confused and hurt.

A little teasing can be fun, but constantly using sarcasm as a means of communication can signal deeper issues. It’s essential to discuss the impact this has on your relationship. Let your partner know that while humor is appreciated, respect should always come first.

Addressing this behavior with honesty and compassion can lead to more genuine interactions. If the sarcasm continues despite your efforts, it may be time to reevaluate the dynamics of your relationship.

7. Lying or Deception

Trust is the cornerstone of any relationship, and lying can quickly erode that foundation. Even small lies can grow into more significant issues, creating a web of deception that’s hard to untangle. If you catch your partner in a lie, it can lead to feelings of betrayal and doubt.

Honesty should be a priority for both partners. Acknowledging mistakes and being truthful helps build a strong, trusting bond. If your partner frequently lies or deceives you, it’s essential to address this behavior and explore the reasons behind it.

Open communication about trust and honesty can work wonders in repairing the damage. However, if deceit continues to plague your relationship, professional guidance might be necessary to navigate these challenges.

8. Refusing to Compromise

Compromise is vital in any relationship, and when your partner refuses to meet in the middle, it can feel like they’re putting themselves first. This stubbornness can create tension and make it seem like they care more about winning than the relationship itself.

In a loving partnership, both individuals should be willing to make sacrifices for one another. Refusing to compromise can lead to resentment and a sense of imbalance. If your partner consistently insists on having things their way, it’s time to have a heart-to-heart about the importance of teamwork.

Expressing your feelings and working together to find common ground can strengthen your bond. But, if a refusal to compromise remains an issue, it might indicate deeper problems that need addressing.

9. Taking You for Granted

Feeling like your efforts go unnoticed can be incredibly disheartening. When your partner takes you for granted, it may seem like they don’t appreciate the time and energy you invest in the relationship. This behavior can leave you feeling undervalued and unimportant.

Acknowledging each other’s contributions is crucial in maintaining a healthy relationship. Expressing gratitude and recognizing the little things can go a long way in fostering a supportive environment. If you feel taken for granted, it’s important to bring this up with your partner.

Having an open conversation about mutual appreciation can help rekindle the spark and remind both of you why you fell in love in the first place. However, if this behavior continues, it may be time to reevaluate your relationship’s dynamics.

10. Keeping Secrets

Secrets in a relationship can breed distrust and uncertainty. When your partner keeps things from you, it can feel like they’re creating distance between you two. This behavior can create a barrier to genuine intimacy and connection.

Transparency is key to a strong partnership. Sharing thoughts, feelings, and experiences helps build trust and understanding. If you discover your partner is keeping secrets, it’s crucial to talk about why this is happening and how it affects your relationship.

Opening up a dialogue about honesty and vulnerability can pave the way for a more authentic connection. But if secrets continue to surface despite your discussions, it may be time to take a closer look at what you both need from each other.

11. Belittling Your Achievements

When you accomplish something significant, it’s natural to want to share it with those you love most. If your partner belittles your achievements, it can feel like a stab to the heart. Their dismissive attitude can make you question your abilities and self-worth.

In a healthy relationship, both partners should celebrate each other’s successes, big or small. A supportive partner should be your biggest cheerleader, not your harshest critic. If belittling occurs often, it’s essential to express how this behavior affects you.

Being open about your feelings can help your partner understand the importance of support and encouragement. But, if they continue to downplay your achievements, it may be a sign of deeper insecurities or issues within the relationship.

12. Excessive Jealousy

Jealousy can sometimes be flattering, but when it becomes excessive, it can suffocate a relationship. If your partner’s jealousy leads to accusations or restrictions on who you can see or what you can do, it can be a major red flag.

Trust and freedom are crucial in any healthy partnership. Excessive jealousy can indicate a lack of trust, causing unnecessary stress and conflict. If you find yourself constantly reassuring your partner, it’s time to have an open discussion about trust and boundaries.

Working together to build trust and understanding can help alleviate jealousy. But, if these behaviors persist, professional intervention might be necessary to help navigate these complicated emotions.

13. Withholding Affection

Affection is a vital part of any loving relationship. When your partner withholds affection, it can feel like they’re putting up a wall between you two. This behavior can leave you feeling unloved and disconnected, questioning the strength of your bond.

In a healthy partnership, affection should be freely given and reciprocated. If your partner uses affection as a bargaining tool or frequently withholds it, it’s important to address how this makes you feel.

Having a heartfelt conversation about the importance of physical and emotional intimacy can help bridge the gap. But if affection continues to be withheld, it may be time to consider the underlying issues affecting your relationship.

14. Prioritizing Others Over You

Feeling like you’re always playing second fiddle to your partner’s friends or family can be disheartening. When they prioritize others over you, it can make you feel like you’re not a priority in their life. This behavior can lead to feelings of neglect and insecurity.

In a loving relationship, both partners should make each other feel special and valued. If your partner consistently puts others before you, it’s crucial to discuss how this behavior affects you.

Communicating your need to feel prioritized can encourage your partner to balance their time and attention. However, if this pattern persists, it may be a deeper issue that needs addressing within your relationship.

15. Controlling Behavior

Being with someone who tries to control every aspect of your life can be incredibly frustrating. If your partner dictates your actions, decisions, or even what you wear, it can feel like you’re losing your autonomy. This behavior is a significant sign of disrespect and can lead to a toxic relationship.

Control should never be a factor in a loving partnership. Each person should feel free to make their own choices without fear of judgment or manipulation. If you notice controlling behavior, it’s important to address it and set clear boundaries.

Openly discussing the need for independence and mutual respect can help restore balance in your relationship. But if controlling tendencies persist, it might be necessary to seek professional help to navigate these challenges.

16. Overstepping Boundaries

Boundaries are essential in any relationship, and when your partner oversteps them, it can feel like a violation of your personal space. Whether it’s going through your phone or not respecting your privacy, this behavior can create a sense of imbalance and mistrust.

A healthy relationship respects each other’s boundaries, allowing space for individuality and personal growth. If your partner frequently crosses these lines, it’s crucial to have a discussion about what boundaries mean to each of you.

Exploring the reasons behind this behavior and setting clear limits can help maintain a respectful and loving connection. However, if boundary violations continue, it may be time to reassess the relationship dynamics.

17. Gaslighting

Gaslighting is a manipulative tactic that can leave you questioning your reality. If your partner frequently denies things they said or did, even when you clearly remember them, it can create a sense of confusion and self-doubt. This behavior is a serious form of psychological manipulation.

In a healthy partnership, both individuals should feel secure in their perceptions and experiences. Gaslighting undermines this security, leading to a lack of trust and confidence. If you suspect gaslighting, it’s critical to address these concerns with your partner.

Discussing your experiences and seeking validation from outside sources can help you regain your confidence. But if gaslighting continues, it may be necessary to seek professional help to protect your mental well-being.

18. Lack of Empathy

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. If your partner lacks empathy, it can feel like they’re emotionally distant or uncaring. This can be particularly hurtful when you’re going through a tough time and need their support.

A loving relationship requires both partners to be attuned to each other’s emotions, offering comfort and understanding. If you notice a lack of empathy, it’s important to communicate your needs and express how this affects you.

Encouraging your partner to be more emotionally responsive can enhance your connection and support network. However, if indifference continues, it may be a sign of deeper issues that need addressing in your relationship.

19. Mocking or Ridiculing

When your partner mocks or ridicules you, it can feel like a personal attack. This behavior is not only disrespectful but also damaging to your self-esteem. Being the butt of their jokes can leave you feeling belittled and devalued.

In a supportive partnership, both individuals should feel uplifted and respected. If mocking or ridiculing is a common occurrence, it’s crucial to address this toxic behavior.

Expressing how these actions impact your self-worth can open the door to more respectful interactions. If this pattern of behavior continues, it may be necessary to reevaluate the relationship’s health.

20. Disregarding Your Needs

Feeling like your needs are being ignored can be incredibly frustrating. If your partner consistently disregards what you need, it can make you feel unimportant and undervalued. This behavior can lead to resentment and a lack of emotional connection.

In a healthy relationship, both partners should strive to meet each other’s needs and support one another. If you feel your needs are being overlooked, it’s essential to communicate this to your partner.

Having an open and honest discussion about your needs can help build a more supportive and nurturing relationship. However, if this behavior persists, it may be time to reassess the dynamics of your relationship.

21. Blaming You for Everything

Being blamed for everything that goes wrong can feel like you’re carrying an unfair burden. If your partner constantly points fingers at you, it can lead to feelings of guilt and frustration. This blame game can create a toxic environment, eroding trust and connection.

In a loving relationship, both partners should take responsibility for their actions and work together to resolve issues. If you find yourself being blamed for everything, it’s important to have a conversation about shared responsibility.

Discussing how blame affects the relationship can lead to healthier communication and problem-solving. But if the blame game continues, it may be a sign of deeper issues that need addressing.

22. Ignoring Your Boundaries

Boundaries are crucial in any relationship, and ignoring them can lead to discomfort and resentment. If your partner consistently disregards your boundaries, it can feel like they don’t respect your autonomy or personal space.

A healthy relationship requires mutual respect for each other’s limits. If you notice your partner ignoring your boundaries, it’s essential to address this behavior and set clear expectations.

Having an open dialogue about what boundaries mean to you can help foster mutual understanding and respect. However, if boundary violations persist, it may be necessary to reassess the relationship’s dynamics.

23. Playing Mind Games

Mind games can leave you feeling confused and anxious. If your partner frequently employs tactics like manipulation or emotional withdrawal to keep you guessing, it can create an unstable and unhealthy relationship dynamic.

In a supportive partnership, both individuals should strive for open and honest communication. Mind games undermine trust and can lead to feelings of insecurity. If you suspect your partner is playing mind games, it’s crucial to address this behavior.

Talking about the impact of these tactics can help restore trust and clarity in the relationship. But if mind games continue, it may be a sign of deeper manipulation that needs addressing.

24. Invalidating Your Feelings

It’s disheartening when your partner invalidates your feelings, as if what you’re experiencing isn’t real or important. This behavior can make you feel misunderstood and isolated, questioning your own emotions.

In a loving relationship, both partners should validate and support each other’s feelings. If you feel your emotions are being dismissed, it’s important to communicate how this makes you feel.

Expressing your need for emotional validation can help strengthen your connection and understanding. But if invalidation continues, it may be necessary to address the underlying issues affecting your relationship.

25. Stonewalling

Stonewalling is when your partner shuts down and refuses to communicate, leaving you feeling alone and disconnected. This behavior can stall any resolution and build up resentment.

Effective communication is at the heart of any healthy relationship. When one partner stonewalls, it can prevent problems from being addressed and resolved. If you notice this behavior, it’s essential to talk about its impact on your relationship.

Encouraging open dialogue and expressing the need for communication can help break down walls. But if stonewalling continues, it may be a sign of deeper issues that need professional guidance.

26. Being Unsupportive

When your partner is unsupportive, it can feel like you’re facing life’s challenges alone. Whether it’s ignoring your achievements or dismissing your struggles, this behavior can lead to feelings of loneliness and frustration.

Support is a fundamental aspect of any loving relationship. If you feel unsupported, it’s important to communicate your needs and express how this affects your partnership.

Having an open discussion about what support means to you can help your partner understand the importance of being there for each other. However, if this behavior continues, it may be necessary to reevaluate your relationship’s dynamics.

27. Making You Feel Guilty

Guilt can be a powerful emotional tool, and if your partner uses it to manipulate you, it can create a toxic relationship dynamic. Feeling guilty for things beyond your control can lead to anxiety and self-doubt.

In a healthy partnership, both individuals should support and uplift each other, not use guilt as a means of control. If you notice this behavior, it’s important to have an honest conversation about its impact on your relationship.

Addressing the use of guilt and discussing healthier ways to communicate can help rebuild trust and connection. But if this pattern continues, it may be necessary to seek professional guidance to address these issues.

28. Neglecting Quality Time Together

Quality time is essential for maintaining a strong connection in any relationship. When your partner neglects this time, it can feel like they’re prioritizing other things over your relationship. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and detachment.

In a loving partnership, spending time together helps strengthen your bond and create shared experiences. If you feel neglected, it’s important to discuss how this affects your relationship.

Encouraging more quality time together can help rekindle your connection. But if neglect continues, it may be necessary to reassess the importance of togetherness in your relationship.

29. The “Forgotten Wallet” Routine

You head out for dinner, and surprise! Your partner’s wallet is mysteriously missing again. It’s a running joke that might not be so funny anymore.

This quirky habit of ‘forgetting’ their wallet or purse can signal a lack of respect. It might seem harmless, but it could be a sign they’re taking advantage of your generosity.

It’s important to address the pattern. Next time, suggest splitting the bill beforehand. This might help curb the habit and set a fairer precedent for your future outings together.

30. Consistently Interrupting Conversations

When your partner consistently interrupts you, it feels like they are not valuing what you have to say. This behavior can make you feel unheard and unimportant. It’s essential to communicate openly about your need to be listened to.

Try expressing how these interruptions affect you emotionally. A partner who respects you will make an effort to change and give you the space to voice your thoughts. Addressing this early on can prevent it from becoming a habitual pattern.

31. Public ‘Accidental’ Embarrassments

Accidents happen, but when your partner frequently ‘accidentally’ embarrasses you in public, it might not be so innocent.

Whether it’s knocking a drink onto your outfit or loudly sharing an awkward story, these moments can be calculated. This behavior undermines your confidence and can be a covert way to assert control.

Consider addressing these ‘accidents’ directly, expressing how they affect you. Seeking a sincere apology and change can strengthen your relationship.

32. Making Decisions Without Consultation

A partner who makes significant decisions without consulting you may not respect your input. This behavior can lead to feelings of exclusion and undermines the partnership aspect of a relationship.

Open communication about decision-making is crucial. Express the importance of collaboration and ensure both voices are heard. A respectful relationship thrives on mutual involvement in decisions that affect both parties.

33. Using Your Insecurities Against You

When a partner uses your insecurities against you, it shows a profound lack of respect and empathy. This behavior can be emotionally damaging and erode trust in the relationship.

Addressing this issue requires open and empathetic communication. Sharing how these actions affect you can help in developing a more supportive dynamic. It’s essential for both partners to uplift rather than undermine each other.

34. Repeatedly Forgetting Important Dates

We all forget things occasionally, but repeatedly forgetting important dates like anniversaries or birthdays can signal a lack of consideration. This behavior might leave you feeling neglected and unimportant.

A respectful partner will prioritize remembering these dates as they hold significance to you. Consider discussing how it feels when these dates are forgotten and share ways to help remember them. Mutual respect involves acknowledging and celebrating milestones together.

35. Consistently Prioritizing Friends Over You

If your partner constantly chooses friends over spending time with you, it may indicate disrespect. This behavior can leave you feeling like a second choice and undervalued.

Discussing how this makes you feel can pave the way for a more balanced approach to social activities. A respectful partner will understand the need for quality time and strive to include you in their social life.