Rev. Roger Parkins has advised against entering into a one-sided friendship. He said one-sided friendships can cause hurt and leave you emotionally drained and unfulfilled.
According to him, a one-sided friendship is an unhealthy friendship wherein the friendship revolves around one person, their needs, and their needs only.
Speaking on Plan B FM’s family, relationship, and lifestyle program dubbed ‘Nyansapo Fie’ on the topic ‘Bad Friendship’ with Rev. Dr. Asenso, he indicated that in this type of friendship, one person is always there for the other, but the same level of support and effort is not reciprocated.
“When friendship becomes one-sided it becomes bad friendship. Friendships that doesn’t bring any development into your life should be discouraged” he advised
Madam Lady Marilyn, also on the show indicated some of the signs of a one-sided and bad friendship. She said when one person only reaches out when they need something. She described it as a sign of a bad friendship one should lookout for.
“In a healthy friendship, both parties should make an effort to stay in touch and spend time together, even if they don’t need anything specific.
When one person only reaches out when they need something, it can be a sign that the friendship is not balanced. For example, they might only call or text when they need a favor, help, or advice, but never just to check in or catch up. This can make the other person feel like they are only valuable for what they can provide, rather than as a person and a friend.
This behavior can also be selfish and hurtful to the other person, as they may feel used or taken advantage of. They may start to feel resentful or frustrated, which can damage the friendship over time” she opined
She further added that, Another sign of a one-sided friendship is when one person is always critical of the other. This can create a negative and unhealthy dynamic in the friendship, where one person feels constantly judged and criticized.
For example, if one person always finds fault with the other person’s choices, appearance, or behavior, it can be a sign that they are not treating the other person with respect and kindness. If they are not open to listening to feedback or making compromises, it can make the other person feel unappreciated and unworthy of their friendship.
“Being constantly criticized can also affect the other person’s self-esteem and confidence, which can make it difficult to maintain a healthy friendship. It’s important to set boundaries and communicate clearly if you feel like you are being constantly criticized or judged” she added
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