Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationship Signs
This page highlights key signs to look out for in relationships—whether you’re experiencing them yourself or noticing them in others. Healthy relationships are built on trust, respect, and mutual care, while unhealthy relationships often involve control, manipulation, and emotional or physical harm.
The signs provided here are sourced from OneLove, an organization dedicated to educating and raising awareness about healthy relationships. We use this curriculum when teaching in schools to help students recognize and understand the dynamics of healthy and unhealthy relationships. Use these signs as a guide to ensure you and those around you are in relationships that promote well-being and safety.
Intensity
When someone expresses feelings and over-the top behavior that feels overwhelming
Possessiveness
When someone is jealous to a point where they try to control who you spend time with and what you do.
Unhealthy Relationship Signs
Deflecting Responsibility
When someone repeatedly makes excuses for their unhealthy behavior.
Manipulation
When someone tries to control your decisions, actions or emotions.
Sabotage
When someone purposely ruins your reputations, achievements, or success.
Isolation
When someone keeps you away from friends, family, or other people.
Belittling
When someone does and says things to make you feel bad about yourself.
Guilting
When someone makes you feel responsible for their actions or makes you feel like it's your job to keep them happy.
Volatility
When someone has a really strong, unpredictable reaction that makes you feel scared, confused or intimidated.
Betrayal
When someone is disloyal or acts in an intentionally dishonest way.
Trust
Confidence that your partner won't do anything to hurt you or ruin the relationship.
Honesty
You can be truthful and candid without fearing how the other person will respond.
Healthy Relationship Signs
Independence
You have space to be yourself outside of the relationship.
Respect
You value one another's beliefs and opinions, and love one another for who you are as a person.
Equality
The relationship feels balanced and everyone puts the same effort into the success of the relationship.
Kindness
You are caring and empathetic to one another, and provide comfort and support.
Healthy Conflict
Openly and respectfully discussing issues and confronting disagreements non-judgmentally.
Comfortable Pace
The relationship moves at a speed the feels enjoyable for each person.
Taking Responsibility
Owning your own actions and words.
Fun
You enjoy spending time together and bring out the best in each other.
Have Questions?
Do not hesitate to reach out to a SAFE San Juans Advocate.
Please visit our Need Help? page for ways to get in contact with and advocate in your area.
About SAFE San Juans
We support survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault/abuse while working to reduce abuse. Learn more about our Objectives, Philosophies, and Services here.
Get in Touch
SAFE San Juans is a 501
PO Box 3175,
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
91-1212454
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