Some common toxic behaviors in American society are: 1. Jealousy & Possessiveness. Jealousy is acceptable in small amounts, but it is a problem when it turns into possessiveness. Toxic people can get intensely jealous and suspicious, and limit the other person's independence. 2. Lack of Respect. A common sign of toxic relationships is frequent disrespect, obvious or subtle. They often walk over the other person's boundaries, stifling their autonomy. They might ask them questions about their private things and invade their space without asking. 3. Verbal and Emotional Abuse. These relationships are plagued by frequent harsh words, angry insults, or demeaning language. Toxic people can be emotionally abusive through constant criticism, humiliation, intimidation, or even threats. These erode self-esteem over time and create an unhealthy power dynamic within the relationship. 4. Controlling Behavior. Controlling behavior may involve overtly monitoring their partner's activities or restricting them from making independent decisions. They may isolate their partners from friends and their origin family to remove their support system against their dominating behavior. 5. Manipulation. Toxic individuals can manipulate their partners into their way of thinking and choosing. They could even make their partner always confused and unsure of their own judgment (“gaslighting”). Their other tactics could be guilt-tripping, blame-shifting, or withholding love.