A controlling boyfriend can be frustrating to deal with. It's important to recognize the difference between love and obsession in a relationship. Watch out for signs of possessiveness and take action to address it, as a healthy relationship should involve a partnership rather than one person controlling the other.

1. You're fighting with your loved ones

If you've noticed that your relationship with your loved ones has become strained and you find yourself arguing with them more frequently since getting involved with your boyfriend, it's important to take a closer look at the situation. Be aware of any instances where your boyfriend speaks negatively about your friends or family. This could be a sign that he is trying to drive a wedge between you and the people you care about. It is important to pay attention to this behavior, as it may be a sign that your boyfriend is causing unnecessary drama in your life.

2. You're always turning to him

It's important to have a diverse support system for advice and to get different perspectives on your issues. If your boyfriend insists on being the only one you turn to for advice, it may be a sign of controlling behavior.

3. You're always apologizing

While apologizing can be a sign of maturity, constantly apologizing in a relationship may indicate an unhealthy dynamic. It's important to reflect on the reasons why you may be apologizing frequently, as it could be a sign of manipulation or control tactics by your partner. Before apologizing, take a step back and consider if you truly have done something wrong.

4. You're changing a lot

A controlling partner may attempt to mold you into the person they want you to be, making you feel as though you have to change in order to please them. This can be subtle and hard to notice, but watch out for comments or actions that suggest you should change your appearance, behavior or beliefs. If you feel pressured to conform to your partner's expectations in order to maintain the relationship, it may be a sign that they are trying to exert control over you.

5. You feel like a kid

A controlling partner may attempt to make you feel like a child by dictating your actions and decisions. This behavior is not healthy and can lead to a lack of trust and communication in the relationship. If you find yourself hiding things from your partner out of fear of their reaction, it may be a sign that it is time to reevaluate the relationship.

6. You don't have any privacy

It is important for individuals to maintain their privacy within a relationship, regardless of how close they are with their partner. A controlling partner may try to access your social media accounts and phone without your consent, which can be a sign of a lack of trust and a violation of your privacy. This may be disguised as a desire for openness and transparency in the relationship, but it is not okay unless you are comfortable with it. You should never feel like you have to limit your privacy in order to be in a relationship.

7. You're always criticized

Constant criticism, even if it is presented as jokes, can be emotionally damaging. If your boyfriend is frequently critical of your actions, appearance, or behavior, it is important to communicate how it makes you feel. Let him know how his words affect you and that it is not acceptable. It's important to stand up for yourself and set healthy boundaries in a relationship.

8. You can't have male friends

A controlling partner may try to isolate you from friends and family by making negative comments about them or limiting your interactions with them. If your partner expresses discomfort with you having friendships with people of a certain gender, it is important to express your feelings on the matter and stand your ground. It is important to maintain healthy relationships outside of a romantic partnership, and a healthy partner should trust and support you in this.

9. You can't say no

If your boyfriend does not respect or accept your boundaries, it can be emotionally draining and concerning. If he constantly pressures you to change your mind about plans or activities, it may be a sign that he is not able to handle the word "no" and that he doesn't respect your own opinions. It's important to have healthy boundaries and to be able to say "no" in a relationship, and a healthy partner should respect that and listen to you.

10. You can't have fun without him

Maintaining independence and having a separate life outside of a relationship is important. If your boyfriend becomes upset or moody when you are enjoying time without him, it may be a sign of controlling behavior. He may become upset if you don't reply to his messages or if you choose to spend time with friends instead of him. It's important to have a healthy balance of togetherness and independence in a relationship, and a healthy partner should support and respect your choices.

11. You feel guilty when he breaks down

When you stand firm after becoming upset, your boyfriend may try to manipulate you by becoming emotional or claiming that you don't understand or love him. Do not fall for this tactic, as it is a sign of toxic behavior.