Is It Wrong For Only One Person to Constantly Make Sacrifices in a Relationship?

[gayeki]

This is actually a situation that I have observed in the relationship of my very close friend. He constantly makes sacrifices and they are both happy with this. Do you think it is normal for my friend to constantly make sacrifices and be satisfied with it?

[Chazmatazz269]

It’s both normal and wrong, generally. People vary so much in so many different ways, but for the most part relationships only work when both partners are investing in each other. But it’s more common than a lot of people understand for there to be a manageable imbalance of power. As long as both remain happy and healthy, there’s nothing wrong with that. Further down that vain are dom/sub relationships. Rarer, but not entirely uncommon situations in which the power imbalance is startling to the uninitiated. There again, as long as both are happy and healthy, there’s nothing wrong with it.
You’re right to be concerned because the dom/sub power dynamic can resemble abusive relationships to a degree. You’ll have to get to know them as a couple better to be certain nothing is wrong. As long as you approach the subject carefully and respectfully, there shouldn’t be an issue. If she attempts to assert her dominance over you, or exhibits other narcissistic behaviors, you might have a friend in need. In which case, get help. Involve his family and other friends, and professionals if possible. Narcissists usually get what they want because they’re good at what they do.
Hopefully it’s nothing. But good on you for noticing either way.

[TruthBringer]

No it is NOT normal, and yes it is WRONG.

Your friend may say he is fine with it, but deep down it is eating him with or without him knowing. Sounds more like desperation to me. Perhaps he couldn't believe he has someone now, and is scared to lose her. So it is his way to have this unhealthy dynamic. I know this because I've been in his shoes. A one-sided relationship with have its toll on the person's mental & emotional health (perhaps even financially). A healthy relationship consists of two people giving and taking. Not one doing the giving and the other only the taking. This will inevitabely lead to the giver feeling taken for granted and used. While the taker won't learn to take care of the other.

Your friend will eventually feel exhausted. It is only a matter of time. If she truly does love him, then she will play her part in the relationship of making sure his needs and feelings are taken care of. If that doesn't happen, then he may have a narcissist on his hand.

[Aerissa_Jade]

Usually no, I say people should be collaborating rather than compromising or sacrificing.

[greentealatte]

It doesn't sound right, but if they're both happy, then it's fine I guess.

[smilelots]

no a relationship is get and take , thats why people should ask serious questions before they get involved with someone. talk about things that matter to you, and see if there is a chance for something more afte that. Important things that is like sex money kids communication is key to every thing.

[Keepitreal007]

That’s tough but if he’s happy then it’s okay. But real happiness is when you both make sacrifices for each other. If it’s one sided it will get old after a while. I sacrifice a lot in my marriage and it’s taxing but my wife does too so it’s worked itself out.

[D_Bone_Steak]

It is if he's happy with it... for me personally it started to really suck when my life was becoming basically every thing she wants.

[Lionman95]

No because it could lead her to use him at some point. He´s happy now but if he shows no limits in his sacrificies he might seem to her like a guy without a backbone I would consider it a dangerous situation.

[Adam1978]

It can't really be a sacrifice if you do it all the time and is still remain happy.

[MrCon10t]

Yes. A relationship MUST be a 2 way street, or you’ll eventually just end up feeling stuck where you don’t want to be.

[TheSpaceGnome]

Relationships aren't about sacrifices, they are about benefits, commonalities, companionship, relatability, love, affection, fun.

[bobby_bush_eater]

It is somewhat normal but wrong nonetheless. Things obviously won't always be a perfect 50/50 but there should definitely be a balance.

[In_Trance]

Should be equal contribution, but that depends on what you both agreed to

[Jouth]

yes.

You should never sacrifice anything for anyone, ever.

[Marshymallow]

It happens but I don’t think it’s fair.

[Anonymous]

Yes, because its not balanced and can cause issues.

[midnightmoon05]

Whatever flows their boat.

[FilmGuy93]

Yeah! It's very wrong

[KatherineJ]

I would say so

[TacosRAwesome]

Yes it is wrong.

[Iron_Man]

You need to have compromise