How to Recognize Fake Love: Red Flags to Watch For (3 of 5)

Conditional Love

Unconditional love is one of the hallmarks of a healthy relationship. It means loving someone for who they are, without strings attached. In fake love, however, affection often comes with conditions. Your partner’s feelings may hinge on how you act, look, or perform in certain areas of life. For instance, they might express love only when you meet specific expectations or fulfill their personal desires. Conditional love fosters insecurity and a fear of not being “enough,” whereas real love offers acceptance and security, regardless of external factors.

Lack of Commitment

A committed partner demonstrates their investment in the relationship through time, effort, and intentional actions. They are eager to define the relationship, set future goals, and work toward shared growth. Fake love, however, often involves a reluctance to commit. If a partner hesitates to make plans, avoids discussing the future, or avoids defining the relationship, they may not fully invest. Commitment is more than a promise; it’s a consistent demonstration of reliability and care. Without it, the foundation of a relationship remains unstable.