9 dating deal breakers

As we all know by now, relationships are complicated. One minute you're up in arms over that hot young thing that was giving your significant other a"the eye" while you two were out, and the next minute you're in each others' arms with out a care in the world. However, there are some things in a relationship that are just unacceptable, and ultimately break-up worthy. We call these deal breakers. Here are 9 dating deal breakers to look out for:

1. The flirt

If you and your girlfriend/boyfriend go out with a group and your other half is directing all of their attention towards someone else for the entire night, you've got a problem. I'm not talking about casual conversation here, I'm talking about generally enjoying this other person's company (arm touching, continuous laughter, consistent eye contact), and ignoring the fact that you're sitting right there. Imagine this person when you're not around...

2. The neglecter

Similar to the flirt, this person will ignore you in public. It's demeaning to watch your girl/guy carry on a conversation with others while you sit there looking around, fake laughing, and smiling because they haven't even thought to introduce you. Sometimes this will happen because you're honey can't remember the other person's name, but if it happens on more than one occasion it's time to rethink this relationship.

3. The liar

Okay, everyone is guilty of telling a lie. However, if the person that you're dating is breaking dates, or lying about where they've been, that's not good. Aside from the fact that you'll never fully be able to trust that person, it's disrespectful and shady. How would they like it if you told them that you were going to the gym when you were really going out for a drink with your buddies?

4. The criticizer

The person that you're in a relationship should be your number one fan. If your partner is willing to criticize you to the point where they are demeaning your self-esteem, then they've got to go. There is a big difference between motivation and degradation.

5. The magician

This one really shouldn't need to be said, but if your supposed sweetheart pulls the disappearing act on you without telling you what's going on, that's a deal breaker. Whether you've been dating for less than a month or you've been dating for a year and they disappear for a week without a hint of an explanation, there is no good excuse for this, on to the next one.

6. The abuser

Whether it be physical or mental, abuse is not acceptable.  Abusing somebody is devaluing them as a person. You need to let them go.

7. The public scolder

Nobody likes to be embarrassed in public, especially by their partner. Who wants to look like a child in front of all of your friends, colleagues or family? Not me. Your boyfriend/girlfriend is not your parent; therefore they should never publicly correct your behavior. It's embarrassing and demeaning. Whatever they want to say to you, they can say in private.

8. The substance abuser

Being with someone who has a substance abuse problem is frustrating, scary and sad. If this is a problem that you've slowly discovered while being with this person, you've got to let them go. If it's a problem that has developed as a result of your relationship, that's a whole different story and you need to be involved in helping this person. It's a tough road to be on.

9. The cheater

Cheating is a slap in the face to everything that you've built with this person. Second chances should go out the window with this one. Walk away with your dignity, and your head high.