There’s a subtle shift when someone starts losing respect for you. It may not be outright disdain or contempt, but small changes in their behavior can signal that they’re starting to see you in a different light.

The thing is, it’s not always easy to spot these signs. They can be so minor that you might overlook them, thinking they’re just having a bad day or they’re just being themselves.

But understanding human psychology, it’s possible to identify some telltale signs that someone’s respect for you is dwindling. And I’m here to share with you these 8 signs that might just save your relationships from going downhill.

So, if you’re ready to delve into some psychological insights and keep your relationships healthy, then keep reading.

1) Their body language changes

Human behavior is a complex mix of verbal and non-verbal cues. And often, it’s the non-verbal cues that speak louder.

Body language, for instance, can be a clear indicator of someone’s feelings towards you. According to psychology, when someone is losing respect for you, their body language may start to change.

You might notice they no longer maintain eye contact like they used to. Or perhaps they cross their arms when talking to you, creating a physical barrier. Even the way they position themselves in relation to you can be telling. Do they turn their body away from you even while speaking? That could be a sign.

Remember, these changes can be subtle and they might not even realize they’re doing it. But if you notice a consistent pattern, it might be time to address the issue.

2) They interrupt you more often

Communication is a two-way street, but when respect starts to diminish, so does active listening. One sign that someone may be losing respect for you is an increase in interruptions during conversation.

I remember a friend I had in college. We would have these long, engaging discussions about everything from philosophy to our favorite TV shows. But over time, I noticed something was off. He started to cut me off mid-sentence more and more. It was as if my opinions didn’t hold the same weight they once did.

At first, I chalked it up to him being stressed or distracted. But after several similar instances, I couldn’t ignore it anymore. It was clear that he wasn’t giving my words the same respect and attention he used to. And it was one of the first signs that our friendship was changing.

This behavior may not be intentional, but it’s a clear sign that they’re not valuing your input as much as they once did. If someone’s interrupting you consistently, it might be a sign of dwindling respect.

3) They stop asking for your opinion

When people respect you, they value your thoughts and perspectives. They want to know what you think because they believe your input matters. However, when someone starts losing respect for you, they might stop asking for your opinion.

This change can be quite subtle. You might find yourself sitting in a group discussion where everyone’s input is sought but yours. Or perhaps you’re in a one-on-one conversation and they make decisions without considering your viewpoint.

Interestingly, a study found that individuals tend to solicit advice from those they perceive as competent and trustworthy. Therefore, if someone stops asking for your input, it may indicate that their perception of your competence or trustworthiness has declined.

Keep an eye out for this sign. It may be a subtle hint that their respect for you is waning.

4) They’re less patient with you

Patience is a virtue that often goes hand in hand with respect. When someone respects you, they’re willing to give you the time and space you need, whether it’s to learn something new, express your thoughts, or make a decision.

But when someone starts losing respect for you, their patience can wane. You might notice they become easily irritated when you’re not quick to understand something. Or perhaps they rush you when you’re making a decision, not giving you the time you need.

This lack of patience can be quite hurtful, especially if it’s coming from someone who used to be understanding and supportive. It’s a clear indicator that they no longer hold the same level of respect for you as they once did.

5) They stop confiding in you

There’s something special about being someone’s confidant. It’s a sign of trust, respect, and deep connection. They value your advice or simply your willingness to listen, and they open up to you in a way they might not with others.

But when someone starts losing respect for you, they might stop sharing their secrets, fears, or dreams with you. This can feel like a sudden distance has been put between you, as if they’ve closed a door that used to be open.

It’s heartbreaking when this happens, especially when it’s someone you deeply care about. But it’s important to remember that this isn’t necessarily about you. It could be their way of dealing with their own issues. Nonetheless, it’s a sign that their respect for you has changed.

6) They start taking you for granted

There’s a fine line between being comfortable with someone and taking them for granted. When respect is intact, people know and appreciate the value you bring to their lives. But when respect fades, gratitude often fades with it.

I’ve experienced this firsthand. I had a roommate who I used to help out a lot, from covering her part of the rent when she was short on cash, to taking care of her dog when she was away. In the beginning, she was appreciative. But over time, her words of thanks became less frequent, until they disappeared altogether.

It felt like she had come to expect my help, without considering the sacrifices I was making. And it hurt, because it seemed like she no longer recognized or respected my contributions.

If someone begins to take your efforts for granted without showing gratitude or reciprocating in any way, it could be a sign they’re losing respect for you.

7) They dismiss your feelings or ideas

When someone respects you, they value your feelings and ideas. They may not always agree with you, but they’ll listen and consider your viewpoint.

However, when someone is losing respect for you, they might start to dismiss your feelings or ideas outright. You might find that they brush off your concerns or belittle your suggestions. This sort of behavior can be extremely damaging, as it invalidates your experiences and perspectives.

This lack of consideration for your thoughts and feelings is a clear sign of diminishing respect. If someone starts dismissing what you have to say, it’s important to address the issue and stand up for yourself.

8) They no longer put in the effort to maintain the relationship

Relationships, whether they are friendships, family ties or romantic partnerships, require effort from both sides. When someone respects and values you, they put in the time and energy to maintain the relationship.

But when someone starts losing respect for you, they might stop putting in that effort. Maybe they stop initiating conversations, or they don’t make time for you like they used to. Perhaps they no longer seem interested in resolving conflicts or making compromises.

This lack of effort is a major red flag. It signals that they might not value the relationship as much as before, and it’s often a sign of dwindling respect. It’s crucial to communicate openly about these changes and understand what’s causing them. Because every relationship deserves respect and effort from both sides.