Have you ever felt someone is disrespecting you but in a subtle way? Well, your feelings are valid! Sometimes disrespect comes in sneaky ways and can be very painful too.

Actions speak louder than words.

In this article, we’ll expose 14 sneaky acts of disrespect! So you can recognise, deal with them confidently and ensure it never happens again. 

Let’s begin.

Phone Distractions

Are they always glued to their phone when you're talking? It's a sign of disrespect. Calmly ask them to focus, put their phone away, or suggest talking later when they can give you their full attention.

Dismissing Your Feelings

Do they dismiss your feelings or opinion as irrelevant? Saying things like, "You're overreacting", or "It's not a big deal". Respectful people will always consider your feelings important, and your opinion will matter to them.

Talking Over You

Do they often interrupt you when you're speaking? It shows your opinion doesn't matter to them, and that’s not respectful. So, ask them politely to let you finish before they respond. Don't fawn; your voice deserves to be heard. 

Backhanded Compliments

Do they compliment you in ways that feel insulting? For example, "You're really smart for someone who didn't attend college." The truth is - backhanded compliments are disrespectful. True compliments should make you feel happy, not confused or offended.

Silent Treatment

Do they suddenly stop talking to you, ignore you, and shut down communication? Even though they might be upset or need space, it's still disrespectful. In healthy relationships, communication is important, even when we're upset. Approach them calmly—let them know you value open communication and that silent treatment isn't acceptable.

Endless Delays

If someone always keeps you waiting without any valid reason, it shows they don't value your time. If this happens, respectfully let them know how you feel. Those who care about you will respect you and make an effort to change.

If this article is helping you, kindly share it with others and subscribe for more! 

Toxic Teasing

Do they often mock you and try to pass it off as a joke? Teasing can be fun, but when it becomes mean, it's not cool. It becomes painful. But instead of retaliating, discuss how it affects you. Honest communication can help people see how their words hurt and can inspire change.

Belittled Achievements

Your accomplishments, big or small, are worth celebrating! If someone makes them seem unimportant, it shows they don’t value your effort.

Broken Promises 

If someone doesn’t keep their word and keeps letting you down, it shows they don't value the relationship. If they keep breaking promises, express how it affects your trust. People who respect you won't keep disappointing you. 

Passion Mockery

When someone mocks you because of what you love doing, it's a sign of disrespect. People who genuinely respect you will appreciate and support your passion and interests. They won’t make you feel bad for loving them.

Gaslighting

Do they twist the truth, make you question your memory and manipulate you into taking the blame for their terrible actions? That's gaslighting, and it’s disrespectful! If you suspect someone is gaslighting you, know it’s okay to ask a mental healthcare professional for help and clarity.

Gossip & Secret Betrayal

Do they share your private information with others? When people talk about you behind your back, it’s a breach of trust. Those who respect you wouldn’t gossip, spread rumors, or share your confidential information. They will always respect your privacy. 

Final words

Sneaky forms of disrespect can be hurtful, but now that you know the signs, you're better equipped to handle it.

The bottom line is you have the right to demand respect.

However, not everyone is willing to listen and understand. Some individuals simply don't have the awareness and humility needed to acknowledge wrongs and work on themselves. In such a situation, create strong and healthy boundaries — prioritize your safety and inner peace.

Reach out for professional support if needed, take time for self-reflection, and make wise decisions. Because your well-being matters.

Want to learn more? Check out the studies below. And if you need more tips on earning back respect, watch this video. 6 Ways to Get People to Respect You (Avoid Being Taken Advantage Of)

So, dear one, we’d love to hear from you!

Have you experienced any of these disrespectful behaviours?

How did you handle it?

Share your thoughts in the comments below.

References:

• CNBC (2022). A psychologist says there are 7 types of 'office jerks'—here's how to tell which one you work with. Retrieved from https://www.cnbc.com/amp/2022/05/05/psychologist-says-there-are-7-types-of-toxic-jerks-use-this-chart-to-see-which-one-you-work-with.html

• The Sun Daily (2022). Subtle signs of disrespect. Retrieved from https://www.thesundaily.my/style-life/subtle-signs-of-disrespect-AY9573772

• Stavrova, O., Ehlebracht, D., & Vohs, K. D. (2020). Victims, perpetrators, or both? The vicious cycle of disrespect and cynical beliefs about human nature. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, 149(9), 1736–1754. https://doi.org/10.1037/xge0000738

• BetterUp (2021). Speaking up for yourself is important — 11 steps to get it right. Retrieved from https://www.betterup.com/blog/speaking-up-for-yourself