What exactly is a red flag? For the purposes of this article, lets define a red flag as a metaphor used to represent a problem that arises in a significant other during the early stages of dating. VALLEY wants to make sure that you are aware of some of the most common types of red flags so that you can save yourselves before any damage is done.
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Your new fling LOVES playing mind games
This one should speak for itself. A mind game, as defined in the Merriam-Webster dictionary, is a psychological tactic used to manipulate or intimidate.
Some well-known mind games include ignoring text messages, purposely trying to make you jealous, sending mixed signals, playing hard to get and so many more. Mind games are a way of boosting their ego and making you feel crazy. VALLEYs advice? Dont play into it. If you want to play games, go to Target and buy one.
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Theirfriends are terrible people
If their friends arent kind to you, then somethings definitely up. Even worse, if your significant other cant recognize this for themselves, then they need to go. Immediately. The chances are that the people they surround themselves with are people that are most similar to them, but its too early in the relationship to see that side.

Graphic posted by @friends on giphy.com
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Yourfriends arent the biggest of fans of them
When it comes to situations like these, our friends always have our backs. They would never lie to us, and sometimes were blinded by love. When our friends tell us that something’s off, we shouldnt ignore their advice.
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They cant have a serious conversation
Trying to talk to someone about something serious and having them not give you any attention is the equivalent to talking to a brick wall, and it is one of the most frustrating things ever. If they cant handle this in the early stages of dating, imagine how this will go if your relationship moves forward.

Graphic by Elite Daily posted on giphy.com
5. Everything is just a joke
This is a big one because its all fun and games until someone gets hurt. Theres a big difference between jokes and insults. If they are continually insulting you, and then claiming they were only kidding, it gets to be extremely aggravating.
At the end of the day, the goal is always to trust your instincts. Whether the red flags happen to be any of the five listed above or any others that make you feel unsettled, theres a clear difference between what should and what shouldnt be happening. Dont settle for anything less than you deserve, because the right person is just around the corner.
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