The Psychology of your 20s 341. The 5 types of toxic friendships
Oct 9, 2025
Friendships should uplift us, but not all do. This discussion highlights five types of toxic friendships, like the critic who controls and the gossip who breaks trust. It also delves into why we cling to unhealthy relationships and how they harm our well-being. Listeners will learn to spot warning signs and the importance of establishing boundaries. Managing friendship breakups and finding healthier connections are key takeaways, encouraging growth and emotional freedom.
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Friendships Shape Identity And Physiology
- Friendships in your 20s become chosen scaffolding for identity and wellbeing.
- Close friends biologically sync with you and regulate stress through bio-behavioral synchrony.
Toxic Labels Apply To Dynamics Not People
- 'Toxic' describes relationships, not people, and people can change over time.
- Toxic dynamics arise from clashing behaviors and contexts rather than inherent poison.
Competition Hides In Friends' Praise
- The 'competitor' friend one-ups and downplays your wins to protect their insecure self.
- This social comparison erodes your willingness to share achievements and vulnerabilities.