No one ever said marriage was a walk in the park and if they did, they likely haven't experienced it themselves or don't understand the challenges that come with nurturing a truly happy marriage. Every marriage is unique, but certain signs of disrespect tend to show up across the board, gradually eroding the foundation until the entire relationship starts to fall apart.

We’ve all seen that couple who argue publicly, making everyone around them uncomfortable. The tension is so thick you can feel it, even in a casual setting. But not all discord is loud some is silent, simmering just beneath the surface.

Speaking harshly to or about your partner is a clear form of disrespect, but many signs are much more subtle and often, more painful. These quiet breaches of respect are only visible to the person who endures them.

Disrespect should never be tolerated in a relationship. Even if you believe you can handle it, you shouldn’t have to. You deserve to be with someone who respects, values, and uplifts you not someone who diminishes you.

Disrespect can take many forms crude language, dismissive behavior, sarcastic jabs but ultimately, it's about how someone makes you feel. If you sense you’re being disrespected, trust your intuition. Everyone deserves to feel loved and valued in their relationship.

# They’re always glued to their phone

Yes, phones are a big part of our lives but they should never take precedence over your partner. Constantly choosing screen time over quality time sends the message: “You’re not as important as whatever’s on this screen.”

# Their friends know more than you do

You’re supposed to be their closest confidant. If you learn important news or everyday updates through others, it’s a sign that you’re not being prioritized.

# They don’t introduce you to people they know

Few things sting more than being left out when your spouse meets someone they clearly know well—and then not even acknowledging your presence. If they can’t say, “This is my partner,” it speaks volumes about your place in their life.

# They only look out for themselves

Marriage is a partnership. If they only focus on their own needs and never show concern for yours or contribute to the household, it shows a lack of consideration—and respect—for your shared life.

# They ignore your achievements

When you care about someone, you celebrate their successes. A spouse who brushes off your accomplishments or can’t say “I’m proud of you” isn’t showing the respect you deserve.

# They tear you down instead of lifting you up

A loving partner wants you to feel confident and secure. If they constantly criticize, highlight your flaws, or belittle you, it’s deeply disrespectful—and emotionally damaging.

# They speak to or about you in a demeaning way

Words matter. If your partner insults you, mocks you, or speaks about you with disdain, especially in front of others, it’s a blatant sign of disrespect.

# They treat personal matters as public entertainment

Your relationship should have boundaries. If they joke about your private moments or share sensitive details without your consent, they’re disregarding your feelings and privacy.

# They keep secrets from you

Honesty is a core element of respect. Hiding things—whether big or small—often comes from a desire to control, not care. If trust is broken, the entire relationship suffers.

# They act like your absence wouldn’t matter

When you’re truly respected, you feel seen and appreciated. If your partner treats you like you’re easily replaceable—or worse, like life would improve without you—it shows just how little they value you.