Jealousy in relationships is not uncommon. Many couples learn how to cope with jealousy in a healthy manner. Negative feelings like jealousy can appear for a number of reasons. If something has changed in the normal flow of the relationship, one partner may begin to feel threatened or pushed aside. For example, should a new job or friends keep one partner away the other may begin to experience feelings of jealousy. Some individuals are more prone to jealousy than others.
What Does Jealousy Mean in a Relationship?
Jealousy in relationships can be very damaging. It can lead to the dissolution of the couple or, at its worst, even abuse. However the presence of jealousy does not necessarily mean that the relationship is doomed. Many couples learn how to deal with the situation. Jealousy in relationships often indicates a need for change or a compromise. How this change comes about depends on the couple. If one partner has not been giving the other a fair amount of attention and time, then they may need to make changes. Partners who like to flirt outside of their relationship can also insight jealousy and may need to alter their behavior before an improvement is noticed.
In other cases, it may not be the non-jealous partner who is the problem. Some people are more jealous than others, often due to past experiences. Someone who is very insecure may feel threatened in harmless situations. For example, if they see that their partner has a close friend of the opposite sex, this could bring about jealousy. In this case, the jealous partner must learn how to deal with these feelings. In any of these situations, both partners should make a point to discuss the root cause of the issue and work towards a compromise that both are comfortable with.
When Does Jealousy in Relationships Become Abuse?
Jealousy can transition further into abuse. In most cases, a normal, healthy adult can work the problem out with their partner long before it becomes a consuming issue. However when the jealous partner allows their feelings to govern their actions, it can lead to an abusive relationship. This is commonly identified through seclusion or mental abuse. The jealous partner will try to keep their significant other away from anything and anyone that they might view as even mildly threatening (especially those of the opposite sex).
This type of abuse often leads to controlling tendencies. The jealous partner will attempt to prevent their significant other from socializing or communicating with others. Arguments and conflict may also become frequent, focused around a lack of trust. Even if the non-jealous partner is faithful, they may be viewed as dishonest and untrustworthy. Jealousy in relationships can be very damaging, unless the problem is addressed and solved before it can become a serious issue.
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