Punitive behavior can manifest as a means of emotional manipulation, where one partner threatens self-harm to maintain control over the other. This creates a power imbalance, isolating the partner from their social and financial support systems. Such dynamics are indicative of an abusive relationship, as the manipulated partner becomes increasingly dependent and limited in agency. Continued infantilization can occur in these scenarios, stunting emotional development and perpetuating a cycle of dependency. This presents not only a challenge to identity and growth but establishes a toxic relationship dynamic where one individual plays a dominant role, wielding emotional consequences as a weapon.