118. 7 Psychological Reasons We Ignore Red Flags in Relationships

Have you ever looked back at a relationship and thought, “Why didn’t I walk away sooner?” You’re not alone — and it’s not about weakness or denial. In this episode, Dr. Gemma Gladstone explores seven powerful psychological reasons we tend to ignore red flags in relationships — especially in the early stages.

Drawing on schema therapy, attachment theory, and decades of clinical experience, Gemma breaks down why patterns like schema chemistry, abandonment fears, self-doubt, and people-pleasing keep us stuck in emotionally harmful dynamics — even when we know something feels off.

Whether you’re dating, in a relationship, or reflecting on the past, this episode offers deep insight and gentle guidance to help you recognize what’s really going on beneath the surface.

You’ll learn:

• What schema chemistry is — and how it hijacks your attraction radar
• Why self-doubt and schemas like defectiveness or dependence make it hard to trust yourself
• The role of the abandonment schema in keeping you hooked
• How emotional deprivation creates low expectations in love
• Why people-pleasing, guilt, and over-responsibility make it hard to leave
• What it means to rewire your “love template”
• How to start showing up for yourself in new ways

Mentioned in this episode:

• The Red Flag Project Course — our online course to help you break toxic patterns and spot red flags early
• Love Wisely Group Coaching — now closed for enrollment. Join the waitlist here for the next round starting September 2025

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Let’s break the cycle — together.