11 Signs of an Unhealthy Dating Relationship

Getting to know someone romantically is very exciting! In a short amount of time, you will have many firsts-first date, first kiss, first 'I love you.'

Dating is an adventure in itself. It takes time and effort to find someone you hope will be a good choice for yourself. However, our hearts may get in the way of our minds. We may stay in a relationship that is not good for us because the feeling of being in love over shadows everything.

Our friends and family may take us aside and say something, but we say it is none of their business. We think we can handle ourselves. We believe that our partner does not mean any harm.

We must remember that we are worthy and we deserve to be in a relationship that is healthy in all respects. Below is a list of eleven situations that may suggest your relationship is dangerous:

1. Your partner gets angry when you talk or hang out with other friends or people of the opposite sex. This usually shows up at the beginning of a relationship. Keep in mind that he or she may repeatedly say things like 'I don't trust that person,' or 'The opposite sex cannot be just friends.'

2. Your partner bosses you around. You have a real boss that pays you for that privilege.

3. Your partner often gets in fights with other people or loses his or her temper. If he or she is always picking fights, it is only a matter of time that rage will seek you out.

4. Your partner pressures you to have sex or to do something sexual that you do not want to do. Part of being in a relationship is enjoying sex. He or she should not force you into any uncomfortable situations.

5. Your partner uses drugs and/or alcohol, and tries to pressure you into doing the same thing. You do not need this type of peer pressure.

6. Your partner swears at you or uses mean language. Hearing this constantly will make you feel less than a person. He or she should speak to you respectfully.

7. Your partner blames you for his or her problems, or tells you that it is your fault that he or she hurt you. Blaming you is a way for him or her to make you look small and undesirable. This causes you to believe no one else will want you.

8. Your partner insults or tries to embarrass you in front of other people. The need to put you in your place makes him or her feel better about himself or herself. It is an ego thing.

9. Your partner has physically hurt you. Pushing, hitting, pinching, grabbing, biting, etc, is definitely a no-no. If this continues, it will eventually lead to your death.

10. Your partner makes you feel scared of their reactions to things. He or she will make you feel as though you live and breathe for them, only.

11. Your partner always wants to know where you are going and whom you are with. Sometimes this will lead to stalking. He or she will be able to report on your whereabouts and surroundings when you are not with him or her.

If you or someone you know is frightened about something in your relationship, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or TTY 1-800-787-3224.