It can be difficult to recognize when a partner is trying to control your beliefs. They may not even realize that they are doing it, and it can be difficult for you to draw boundaries. Here are some signs that may indicate that your partner is being controlling about your beliefs:
1. Your Partner Tries to Pressure You into Agreeing with Them - This could involve using threats or ultimatums to try and get you to believe the same things as them without giving you space to form your own opinions on the subject.
2. They Constantly Criticize Your Beliefs - Even if they do not explicitly tell you what to believe, they often criticize any beliefs that do not align with their own. This is a way to try and make you feel bad or wrong for having different beliefs than them.
3. They Make Decisions for You - Your partner may want to make decisions about religion, politics, or other important topics for both of you to control your beliefs.
4. They Try to Isolate You from People Who Have Different Beliefs - One way that people can control others’ beliefs is by isolating them from anyone who might have different views than them. If your partner forbids you from interacting with certain people because of their views on issues, it might be a sign that they are trying to control what you believe.
It is important to remember that although your partner may be acting controlling, the most important thing is to protect yourself and your beliefs. Do not be afraid to speak up for yourself and set boundaries if you feel that your partner is crossing them. A healthy relationship means allowing each other space to have different opinions, so make sure that you are clear about what is and is not acceptable behavior regarding discussing beliefs.
If these behaviors become extreme or indicate an unhealthy pattern of control, it may be a sign of emotional abuse. If you feel unsafe in any way, reach out to someone you trust or contact a helpline like The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233).
Nicholl McGuire is the owner of this blog and the author of Laboring to Love an Abusive Mate, Laboring to Love Myself, Socially Sweet Privately Cruel Abusive Men, and many more nonfiction books.
