by Leigh Goessl

Created on: June 30, 2009   Last Updated: July 02, 2009

A person's level of self-esteem often has a direct effect on dating relationships. This is due to the positive or negative aura which is connected to self-esteem. Positive projections tend to enhance a relationship, but negative behavior tends to have the opposite effect.

By definition self-esteem is the opinion a person has of themselves. High self-esteem means a person values themselves as an individual. Conversely, someone with low self-esteem doesn't think too highly of who they are and perceives a faulty self-image.

The ways low self-esteem impacts a relationship are vast and can have many long lasting repercussions because these issues of self-respect are projected visibly to partners. Reasons rooted in self-worth issues are typically the source which feeds the problems caused by low self-esteem in relationships.

Here are some of the many ways low self-esteem can affect relationships:

*Communication and Trust Elements

A person with poor self-esteem likely will exhibit an inability to communicate, and since this is one of the foundational elements needed for a healthy relationship, this is a problematic effect. If communication isn't flowing two-way, problems in the partnership are ultimately going to emerge.

Those with self-esteem issues may act irrationally, aggressive, or argumentative and hurt communication through these combative tendencies. On the other end of the spectrum a person dealing with low self-esteem can become withdrawn and isolated from the important people in their life. Either direction leads to eventual communication problems.

Additionally, some people with self-worth issues tend to have problems trusting others and this is the other foundational element needed for a strong relationship. Without trust and solid communication, a relationship is likely going to turn sour at some point because the grounding elements that solidify a partnership are lacking. It is not uncommon for someone feeling low self-worth to experience worries and concerns about their partner.

All of these rudiments also frequently lead to intimacy problems, which can be another problematic effect for relationships.

*Negative Attitude

Negativity is another of the most common results of low self-esteem. A person who sees little worth in themselves is likely to begin to put other aspects of life in a pessimistic or depressing light. How does this affect a dating relationship? It's typically tiring on the person listening to constant put-downs.

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