We’ve all watched the romantic comedies. We’ve all seen the Walt Disney movies. We have our own ideas of what romantic behavior is. But, are these behaviors really romantic? Here are some behaviors that we have all been taught are romantic, but really aren’t if you think about it. Some even border abuse.
1. Jealousy Means They Care
Two guys fighting over you may seem cute at the time, but it’s really overbearing behavior. When they are jealous of you spending time with friends and family, it’s a bit much. Think 50 Shades of Grey.
Your partner isn’t your property. They are allowed to have a separate social life; that doesn’t mean they don’t want you.
2. Intimacy Means Having No Boundaries
First, what are boundaries? Drawing boundaries means telling someone when you are and are not comfortable. If they respect your boundaries, then they won’t do the things that make you uncomfortable.
It’s about consent really, so boundaries are part of a healthy relationship. In fact, boundaries are essential. Everyone has limits. Many fictional narratives show couples violating each other’s boundaries. One example is stalking. Some movies portray it as cute, but really it’s not.
3. Constant Clashing Is A Sign Of Chemistry
This idea has been popularized by every book and TV show. Ever. For example, the book Pride and Prejudice has the main characters constantly bickering. In many narratives, the couple that is always mushy and all over each other is considered boring. The couple that bickers is always drawn back to each other. In reality, constant fighting is not a sign of a healthy relationship.
4. You Hurt Each Other Because You’re Close
This is kind of related to the last point. The in the narrative bickers and hurts each other’s feelings, but then they keep getting drawn back because they are crazy about each other. We should exercise restraint and try not to hurt our partners intentionally.
Watch this video for even more examples of tropes that are supposed to be romantic, but really aren’t:
Featured image via Twitter.
