20 Signs of Disrespect in a Relationship And What to Do

Asuccessful marriage will most likely be built on signs of love and communication, and not disrespectful communication. Sometimes, as a marriage continues, one spouse says things that ultimately could lead to disrespectful interactions within that marriage. Noticing the signs of disrespectful communication is important, similarly to how important noticing the signs he doesn't want to marry you or signs he wants a divorce. An online therapist can be helpful in this space, so you can receive help and advice from the comfort of your home.

"We all deserve to be with someone who treats us kindly. The echoes of a partner's harsh words in a relationship can often be heard for years to come. Respect yourself enough to know when it is time to stand up for yourself against disrespect. That may mean becoming more assertive, or it may mean moving on." - Aaron Horn LMFT

Disrespect In A Relationship

Let’s take at a look at some common signs of disrespect in a relationship:

#1 They Don't Make Time

Spending time with each other is a crucial aspect of marriage. If your partner does not make time for you, whether it be for conversations or even just catching up, then it is a possibility that they may have begun to take your presence in their life for granted. Lack of time to spend with your partner, arrange date nights, or commemorate important occasions might result in a lost marriage.

In long-term couples, it’s not uncommon for partners to get caught upin life. Work, strain in the family, and so on, may all start to take up a significant portion of your or your partner’s time.

Furthermore, it is not uncommon for couples that are married to face a situation where they unintentionally fall into the mundane of daily life and stop putting the time and effort into their marriage, as they used to.

However, this does not mean that it’s good for the relationship. While unintentional, this lack of effort mayfeel likedisrespect in a relationship or lead to a decrease in intimacy or other concerns.

Usually, this can be solved with a conversation. The conversation can start with a statement as simple as, “our relationship means a lot to me, and I would like to spend more quality time together.” From there, you can ask to plan date nights - which are important for the health of long-term couples - put effort into starting more deep, authentic conversations with one another, and trying other new activities as a couple, like playing games built for connection.

If a partner shuts down this conversation or scoffs at the idea of an increase in quality time, that is a sign of disrespect in and of itself, and it is different from the unintentional distance that can sometimes occur. Counseling may be advantageous or even necessary if that is the case.

#2 They Keep Things From You

Keeping a spouse in the loop is a basic sign of respect and value for their time, care, and wellbeing. Again, there are times when people overlook things, and this could be one of those times. Details that seem major to one person might not seem so major to the other, and life stress that takes up a great deal of mental or emotional space could be another factor, as it can cause someone to forget things more frequently. 

If your partner frequently keeps things from you, whether deliberate or not, it might be time to talk about howthese actions make you feel undervalued and the consequences they have for you, for them, and the overall romantic relationship.

#3 They Don’t Introduce You

Sometimes, actions speak louder than words. You should also notice how your spouse behaves in front of their social circle with you on most occasions rather than one-time scenarios. If they are with their colleagues or friends and they fail to introduce you or bring you into the conversation, then it could show that they’re not as interested or value your input or involvement as they should be. This can indicate disrespect within a relationship, or it could be an oversight, depending on the scenario, the intent, and other things that are or aren’t going on within your relationship. 

Regardless, your feelings are valid in all relationships, and direct communication in all relationships is a likely solution, particularly if these actions were not purposeful.

A conversation could be all it takes to determine that there's disrespect in a relationship. That said, mental health professionals who provide relationship therapy frequently help couples see each other's side and come to a solution.

If you’ve already brought it up with your partner but they haven’t modified their behavior in their relationships, therapy can help you or all relationships find a resolution.

#4 They Only Care For Themselves

A good spouse who shows respect and value for their partner will be concerned about their partner’s needs, family, and household. However, sometimes a partner may only be concerned about their wellbeing, health, or material needs. This is different from self-care or individuality, both of which are important both with someone and those who are unwillingly single and aren’t disrespectful in nature. It is essential to understand and notice this difference.

If your relationship feels like it’s not equal in this way and you feel disrespected or takenfor granted, it is time for things to change. If you run the household, pay the rent, clean, cook, and are emotionally available when they are having a tough time, but they do not do the same when you need it even though they can, that is not okay.

People might be able to give different things when they are dating, and they might need distinct things, too.

You’re different people, so it makes sense that you would each have individual needs in your relationship.

However, it should not feel like you're with someone that ignores you while you care for them and are conscious of their needs.

#5 They Don’t Acknowledge You

Sometimes, the people we care about become engrossed within their own lives and what’s going on within their life outside of their relationships.

Other times, they may fail to understand or appreciate the importance of what’s going on with you for another reason. As a result, you might feel hurt or disrespected and it can be best for you to have an open and honest conversation to realize their point of view and make yours available to them, too.

There are also circumstances within unhealthy couples where a partner may actively ignore your excitement over something or put you down when you’re happy. For example, if you’re excited about a promotion, the person you’re  with might scoff “it’s not that big of a deal” or “anyone could have done that.” This is not a matter of simply being aloof. It is disrespectful behavior, and it is not okay.

#6 They Make You Feel Less

A spouse that makes you feel less than desired or valued may not be respecting you. However, it is important to understand the difference between when they truly mean it or when they speak out because of a moment of stress, tiredness, and so on.

The thing about any close or intimate couples is that we have a higher likelihood of seeing each other when we aren’t at our best in our relationships.

Generally, our partner will likely see you when you are a little more grumpy or moody than you might be on other occasions - and vice versa. This is not an excuse, but it may be worth noting that there is a difference between a partner who is a tad irritable on a bad day - maybe, you ask how their day is, and they grumble as a response, apologizing after the fact - and a partner who does put you down, belittles your intelligence, or otherwise mistreats you.

It is crucial that whoever you’re with sees you in a fond light and acknowledges you as the intelligent, valuable person you are. If it feels like this is not true within your relationship, something needs to change.

#7 They're Derogatory

Spouses who do not value the other often make derogatory comments either to the face or behind the back. This could include comments on your intellect, career path, hobbies, or even the kind of person you are. These comments are not only blatantly disrespectful, but a form of verbal abuse. For a healthy relationship, a partner is supportive of your self-esteem. While a person who verbally abuses may attempt to say that they are trying to “help” you or that they are just giving “constructive criticism”, derogatory comments are not helpful, supportive, or motivating- and can be a clear sign of a disrespectful partner.

#8 They Hide Things

Hiding things from you, especially important things, is generally inappropriate behavior. A partner who hides things may be carrying out acts that you generally wouldn’t approve of; they violate your trust by performing these actions, but also by working hard to keep them secret. Sometimes, we don’t mention things to the people we’re dating, and it’s not at all malicious - we may not think to bring up a new cafe we tried at lunch or something a coworker did that bothered us. Additionally, we may not always open up about certain things - deeper things - right away. However, actively attempting to hide something, especially if it involves you, is different, and it can certainly hurt a relationship as well as indicate disrespect in a relationship.

#9 They Treat You Poorly

Sometimes, spouses may treat you as if you do not matter or are not valued in their lives. No one should have to feel not valued by someone they love – if your spouse treats you like anything less than the partner and person you are, it’s time to take a step back. What makes you feel as though you don’t matter in this relationship? Does your partner ignore your feelings through statements such as, “other people have it worse” or “just get over it”? Does it feel like they have a lack of interest in the relationship or ignore the effort you put into the relationship?

Two possible definitions of the word respect are “a feeling of admiring someone or something that is good, valuable, important, etc.,” and “a feeling or understanding that someone or something is important, serious, etc., and should be treated in an appropriate way.” So, if you don’t feel valued or don’t feel like you matter in a partnership, it makes sense that you would also feel disrespected. No one wants to feel like they don’t matter, and it is incredibly painful to think that you don’t matter to someone you are in a relationship with.

Move Forward To A Healthy Partnership

Sometimes, people show care in varying ways and won’t know that a partner feels this way. Other times, blatant disrespect is the culprit. Regardless of intention, change is necessary in a relationship where this feeling shows up. In a healthy partnership, a partner will likely want to learn about what does or does not make you feel valued, heard, and affirmed.

#10 They're Rude To You

Sometimes, spouses fail to stand by their partner when they are having a tough time, but those who often show indifference to your struggles do not offer any help crossing the line between common human error and genuine disrespect. They may seem only half interested in your concerns. They may even say something like, “I don’t understand what the big deal is” or “you’re too sensitive.” Worst case scenario, you may even say to yourself, "I hate being married to my wife.".” This is another case where relationship counseling may be essential for the health of the partnership. That is behavior that needs to change. Your feelings matter, and in a respectful relationship, people care about each other‘s feelings and work to support one another emotionally. There are definitely times when there’s nothing a person can do, but if someone you are in a romantic partnership with is actively opposing your feelings and needs, or if they take the side of someone who is hurting you, that is not at all acceptable, and it is a sign of disrespect in a relationship.

#11 Inappropriate Social Media Shows Lack of Respect

Interacting with friends of any gender is not necessarily a problem, but when social interaction becomes flirty, racy, or otherwise more than spiritual, it’s valid to be concerned. One survey found that 7% of people who have used online dating methods have done so as a means to cheat on their partner while in a relationship. Look for signs of early relationship red flags. If they’re always on their phone or computer, step away from you to take phone calls, and never seem to leave their phone unattended or appear nervous about doing so, this could be a major red flag.

If this or any other signs of disrespect lead to divorce, it is possible to move forward. You deserve to have healthy, respectful, authentic connections. Finding a counselor or therapist to work with one-on-one can help you get where you want to be, identify what you want to look for, if you are ready to do so, and work through any potential effects of infidelity that may occur.

Signs Of The Negative Effects Of Social Media

There are a number of other ways that social media could negatively affect a relationship or make a person feel disrespected that have nothing to do with infidelity or cheating. For example, if a partner details about you on the internet that you do not want , it makes sense that you would feel disrespected, and it’s vital to draw firm boundaries in this area.

#12 They Comment Negatively

Does your spouse make fun of your clothing choices or something else related to the way that you look? This pairs with any other derogatory or negative comment made as a sign of disrespect, but it is a sensitive topic that deserves to be discussed on it’s own.

No matter your relation to a person, this is not acceptable. Whether comments about your appearance show up with a family, a friend, or romantically, it is disrespectful and can be harmful.

A healthy partnership should not cause insecurity or make you question your value; instead, it should be a bond that uplifts and supports you as well as your self-esteem.

#13 They Don’t Help

If you face struggles and your spouse is not willing to help you, that can cause concern in your partnership. If the partner is not offering to help independently, you could also try asking for help. However, if help is unavailable despite avoidable reasons, you may need to rethink your situation.

#14 They Aren’t Polite

While it is true that not everyone will get along with everyone else, if your spouse cannot be bothered to be polite to your friends and family and respect these relations as something that is a meaningful part of your life, it could be a sign that they do not respect you and value you as much as they should. Maybe, they make unkind jokes about your friends or family behind their back, even when you set a boundary and ask them to stop. This is a big deal, and although it can sometimes be done out of insecurity or other factors, it is not at all excusable. Your family relations matter, as do the connections you have with your friends. This is behavior that requires modification if it arises in your partnerships, and it is highly disrespectful.

#15 Unwilling To Results

Marriage is about partnership.

Partners may their joys, happiness, and even material goods with each other. Individuals involved romantically may have differences in what they can give within those partnerships, and this can definitely work. For example, one partner may take on more household labor, where another takes on more financial labor. You both contribute and put effort in based on what you can do as unique people in this partnership. That said, if there is a sense of inequality, it may feel like the other person is walking on you, and it could be a sign of disrespect in a relationship.

Say that you have kids together, and you provide your time to watch the kids on your own when your partner wants to do something fun, like go on a trip or head out for the night and spend time with friends. But, time and time again, when you ask for the same, no matter how soon in advance, your partner says “no,” or they put their outings above yours - even if you rarely get to go out and they are able to do so much more because of the time and energy you . Relationship counseling may be effective in helping you and your partner make a better plan for the future of the relationship when it comes to areas like and fairness. This is going to look different for every couple; what often matters most is how it feels.

#17 Silent Treatment

Often, people use the silent treatment to make one feel alone or completely cut off from their life.

This can be a troubling hint for a marriage or any kind of connection for that matter. 

In some cases, this sign of disrespect in relationships may be referred to as stonewalling. The Cambridge dictionary defines stonewalling as “to stop a discussion from developing by refusing to answer questions or by talking in such a way that you prevent other people from giving their opinions.” If your partner stops talking and ignores you when you are talking to them, this may be what’s going on. Sometimes, this happens because a partner doesn’t know how to communicate the need to ask for space and discuss something later. In this case, the intent may not be one that is disrespectful in nature, meaning that your partner would likely want to change things. After all, the people you’re in a partnership with won’t want you to feel disrespected. 

What might be needed in your partnership is a conversation about how to say “I need to cool off before we continue this discussion.”In relationships of any kind, you only know what the other person tells you. A lack of communication can mean that you’re left guessing, feeling unheard, or feeling disrespected. It’s vital that you and your partner are able to discuss needs like this so that you both have a sense of mutual respect and resolution both during and outside of disagreements. 

The intention behind the silent treatment may also be something else.

If a partner ignores you entirely or treats you as though either you or the relationship are an inconvenience, that is not at all okay, and it is blatantly disrespectful.

#18 Boundaries

Every relationship must have boundaries to differentiate between what is comfortable or acceptable and what is not. This needs to be respected and valued by both partners. In any partnership, romantic or otherwise, boundaries are vital, and crossing them is a show of disrespect.

Say that you have a boundary around certain topics of conversation. Or, as another example, let’s say that your partner has a tendency to make jokes, and you have asked them not to make a particular joke about you. Though they see it as playful or “not a big deal,” these jokes hurt your feelings, and it is a big deal to you.

Sometimes, asit-down conversation is enough when this comes up. 

Setting Boundaries For Self Respect

It can be tough to set boundaries at times, especially if you’re not used to doing so. This could even be the root of why a person feels disrespected; if you don’t tell your partner what makes you feel disrespected or what you won’t allow, they may have no idea that something is bothering you. Similarly, a partner who violates boundaries may not have learned to set boundaries themselves.

#19 Refuses To Compromise In A Disrespectful Way

Marriage is often based on compromising for the happiness of the other or for the relationship to succeed. However, both partners must be equally compromising to ensure that there is a balance within the relationship. 

Let’s use a common example: You want to see your family for the holidays, but your partner demands that, for the 8th year in a row, both of you visit their family instead. They shut down your ideas for a compromise, like spending time with both of your families as a couple, going to see your families independently, or alternating the years that you see each person’s family for specific holidays or events. As a result, you feel disrespected. Your partner may even guilt you into doing what they want you to do. 

If you feel that you are the only one compromising within your marriage,stand up for yourself, draw a line and stop doing it – especially if it hurts your marriage!

When To Draw Your Line

Now for the ultimate question: When do you draw the line, and if you determine that it is time to draw the line in your relationship, how do you do it?

While reading the article, if you believe any of the signs of disrespect in a relationship may be occurring within your partnership, it indicates a need for change.

The same is true if anything else within your partnership feels uncomfortable, seems to draw a wedge between the two of you, or otherwise negatively impacts you or the bond at large Ultimately, feeling disrespected isn’t good for partnerships on either side, and it can lead to other problems long-term. If you keep how you feel inside, you may start to notice emotional suppression, resentment, irritability, passive-aggressive behavior, and so on - all with, potentially, no resolve to the underlying concern. In partnerships, everyone involved should feel respected and valued. If you don’t, it’s essential to speak up, work together, and reestablish a sense of respect and appreciation.

Noticing The Signs: Next Steps

Your next step will depend somewhat on your unique circumstances. Some of the things mentioned in this article can very well be due to a lack of communication or understanding in interpersonal partnerships where individuals do not intend to be disrespectful toward their partner and do not want a partner to feel ignored. However, others could indicate a disrespectful or abusive relationship, which may need to be handled differently. In any case, your safety is the #1 priority. Abuse is not something that anyone deserves, and help is available.

Consider that abuse does not necessarily mean physical violence. If you or someone you know could be in domestic violence or abusive situation, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1.800.799.SAFE (7233).

Please remember that you do not deserve to stay in an abusive situation and that help is always available.

In situations absent of abuse, you must take note of the things that make you feel disrespectedand speak to your partner openly and honestly. You could also opt for relationship counseling and therapy to discuss your relationship and work on it.

Get Help With Disrespect In A Relationship, Relationships, or Marriage

With the emergence and popularity of online therapy options, it’s easier now more than ever to get the support that you need. The counselors at ReGain are experienced professionals who are trained as a licensed psychologist, licensed marriage and family therapist, licensed clinical social worker, or licensed professional therapist.

They will provide you with the necessary support and spaceto voice out your marital concerns, stand up for yourself, and reach solutions for your marriage.

ReGain For Disrespectful Behavior

When you join the ReGain platform, you can work with a counselor one-on-one, or you can see a relationship expert with a partner for couples therapy. The plans are affordable, and it’s both quick and convenient to sign up. Just answer a series of questions, and you’ll match with a licensed provider in as soon as a few hours or a few days. You can also stop services or switch counselors easily if you need to at any point in time.

Conclusion

Regardless of if you opt to get support in person or online through a platform like ReGain, you deserve to get the care that you need and experience harmonious partnerships. 

What if you aren’t sure about online counseling yet? Here are reviews of ReGain counselors to read from people going through similar concerns.

Therapist Reviews

Conclusion: Feeling Disrespected

There isno reason to put up with disrespect or feeling that your partner does not value you. You deserve to feel valued within any relationship. Once you notice the signs of not feeling valued, you should get help from a professional counselor. With the right tools, you can start to repair your marriage, and begin to feel valued by each other again, regain respect, and you can learn how to move forward together.