What Does the Term Red Flag Mean and What Are Its Characteristics?

Dream - The term red flag has recently become a trend on social media, whether on Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok. In fact, the term is often mentioned in someone's conversation, especially when talking about an unhealthy romantic relationship that shows dangerous signs.

With the increasing popularity of the term red flag, it is considered important to discuss it in more depth. Recognizing that red flags can affect a person's physical and mental well-being, which of course relates to personal safety.

So, what is the true meaning of the term red flag? Is the term only intended for romantic affairs?

Well, for Dream friends who want to know more about it, here is the meaning of the term red flag as summarized by Dream from various sources.

Meaning of the Term Red Flag

In terms of language, the term red flag is an English word that means a red flag. Red flag itself is aimed at something suspicious or dangerous. However, the term red flag is not only used in romantic relationships. But also for work, business, and even politics.

In today's era, the term red flag is widely used by young people and is considered a common slang term used in romantic relationships.

If in a relationship, the meaning of the term red flag is a sign of danger or unhealthy conditions in a relationship that is being pursued. Therefore, it is better not to continue the relationship.

Now, red flags can actually be recognized from the attitudes or behaviors of partners. Whether from the male or female side. One example of such behavior is giving control or limitations to partners to carry out their activities. This indicates that the partner's freedom is greatly hindered. Such conditions indicate that the relationship is unhealthy.

Characteristics of Red Flags in a Relationship

After knowing the meaning of the term red flag, Dream friends also need to know the characteristics of these red flags. Here are some characteristics that Dream friends can recognize:

Excessive Jealousy

Some say that jealousy is a sign of love. However, if jealousy is excessive, then it is considered a red flag in a partner. In this case, trust in the partner is not in a good condition. Whereas in a relationship, trust is very important.

When a partner has excessive jealousy, it will hinder their activities or efforts to develop themselves. Especially if there are people of the opposite sex involved. Where the goal is to collaborate and be friends, but it is considered to have a deeper relationship and is suspected.

Alcohol and Drug Addiction

The second characteristic of red flags is alcohol and drug addiction. This greatly affects the psychological and physical health of the partner. Not only that, people who are addicted usually resort to various ways to get those substances back. This can cause economic problems in the family and trigger other problems.

Excessive Control

Before entering a more serious relationship, both parties should have a discussion and make agreements. The discussion should be fair and accepting of each other's opinions.

If one party refuses to accept their partner's opinion, then Dream friends should be careful if they will later exert excessive control.

Lack of Privacy

In a relationship, openness is indeed very important. However, not everything can be known together. There are some things that are private. Each partner must respect that and, of course, not violate it. For example, about phone passwords. Some partners are open with each other, while others have their own privacy. When it comes to privacy, do not secretly open it because it can cause conflicts in a relationship.

Infidelity

Another red flag is infidelity. Dream friends should be cautious about this. Because infidelity is like a recurring disease that can flare up at any time. Even though promises have been made not to do it again, we do not know what the future holds. So, when Dream friends find out that their partner is cheating, they should reconsider taking that relationship to a more serious level.

Violence

A relationship should be based on love. So, if there is violence in a relationship, this is what is called a red flag. Violence is not only physical, Dream friends. It can also be verbal violence. If you have experienced violence in a relationship, you have every right to leave.