Why Does My Boyfriend Always Scold Me

If your boyfriend’s scolding you, it’s time to hit pause and take a closer look. Relationships should lift you up, not tear you down.

In this guide, we’re diving deep into why this might be happening and what you can do about it.

From understanding the root causes to recognizing red flags and taking actionable steps, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to reclaim your peace and power? Let’s get started.

a meme of a handsome boyfriend who scolds a lot

Understanding the Root Causes

Communication Issues

Ever feel like you’re both speaking different languages? Misunderstandings and miscommunication can turn sweet nothings into heated somethings real quick.

Maybe he’s a “get to the point” kind of guy, while you’re all about the details. Different communication styles can make it feel like you’re on opposite teams.

It’s like the Tower of Babel all over again—everyone’s talking, but no one’s understanding (Genesis 11:7-9).

Stress and External Factors

Life’s a circus, and sometimes we’re the clowns juggling flaming torches. Work stress, family drama, or financial pressure can turn Mr. Right into Mr. Uptight.

When the world’s weighing on his shoulders, a little thing can set off a big reaction. Remember King Saul? The guy had a kingdom to run and ended up chucking spears at David (1 Samuel 18:10-11).

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Stress does funny things to people.

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Personality Traits

Ah, the joys of dating a perfectionist! If your boyfriend’s got a controlling streak or a perfectionist personality, he might be more likely to scold when things don’t go according to his master plan.

Think of Martha, bustling around and stressing out while Mary chilled with Jesus (Luke 10:38-42). Sometimes, it’s all about perspective.

If he’s a bit of a control freak, it’s like he’s trying to play God, forgetting that perfection is divine territory.

Emotional and Psychological Perspectives

Insecurity and Jealousy

Insecurity and jealousy are like the dynamic duo you never wanted in your relationship. If your boyfriend has a fear of losing you, he might scold as a way to keep control.

It’s like he’s channeling his inner King Saul, who was so paranoid about David taking his throne that he went full-on berserk (1 Samuel 18:8-9).

Then there’s the comparison game. He might be stacking himself up against your exes or even your friends’ boyfriends.

Remember Cain and Abel? Cain got so jealous of Abel’s favor with God that he ended up committing the first murder (Genesis 4:3-8).

Okay, so your boyfriend’s scolding isn’t that extreme, but you get the drift—jealousy can make people do crazy things.

Past Trauma or Experiences

Past trauma is like an unwelcome guest that never leaves. If your boyfriend had a rough childhood or went through a bad breakup, these experiences can shape how he reacts in your relationship.

Think of Joseph’s brothers—they were so scarred by their father’s favoritism that they sold Joseph into slavery out of sheer spite (Genesis 37:3-4).

Previous relationships can also cast a long shadow. If he’s been burned before, he might be overly cautious or quick to scold to protect himself.

It’s like he’s carrying around emotional baggage that’s heavier than Goliath’s armor (1 Samuel 17:5).

Read: Can Your Boyfriend Be Your Best Friend?

Relationship Dynamics

Power Imbalance

Power imbalance in a relationship is like trying to play a game of tug-of-war on a seesaw—someone’s bound to get hurt.

If your boyfriend is all about dominance and control, it’s like he’s channeling his inner Pharaoh, trying to keep you under his thumb (Exodus 1:8-10).

This can lead to a lack of mutual respect, where one person’s voice drowns out the other’s.

Remember, God created Eve as a helper suitable for Adam, not as a subordinate (Genesis 2:18). Mutual respect is key.

Conflict Resolution Styles

When it comes to resolving conflicts, everyone has their own style.

Some people avoid confrontation like Jonah avoided Nineveh, while others dive in headfirst like Peter cutting off Malchus’s ear (John 18:10).

Avoidance can lead to bottled-up feelings and explosive arguments down the line, while constant confrontation can be exhausting.

Healthy arguments are like iron sharpening iron (Proverbs 27:17)—they make you better.

Unhealthy arguments, on the other hand, are like the quarrels of the Israelites in the wilderness—endless and unproductive (Exodus 17:2).

Finding a balance is essential for a harmonious relationship.

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Spiritual and Faith-Based Considerations

Biblical Teachings on Relationships

The Bible’s got some serious wisdom when it comes to relationships. Ephesians 4:2-3 tells us to “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Sounds like a tall order, right? But imagine how much smoother things would be if both of you followed this advice.

Then there’s Colossians 3:19, which says, “Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.”

If your boyfriend is more of a scolder than a lover, he might need a gentle reminder that love and harshness don’t mix. It’s like oil and water—they just don’t go together.

Godly Love and Patience

Ah, the famous love chapter. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 is like the ultimate relationship manual: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” If your relationship isn’t ticking these boxes, it’s time for a heart-to-heart.

And let’s not forget Proverbs 15:1: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Next time things get heated, try responding with a gentle answer.

It’s like throwing water on a fire instead of gasoline. Your relationship might just thank you for it.

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Practical Steps to Address the Issue

Effective Communication Techniques

Alright, let’s get real. Communication is the bread and butter of any relationship. Active listening is like the holy grail here. Instead of planning your next rebuttal while he’s talking, actually listen.

James 1:19 nails it: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”

Expressing feelings without blame is another game-changer. Instead of saying, “You always make me feel bad,” try, “I feel hurt when this happens.”

It’s like the difference between throwing a stone and extending an olive branch. You’re aiming for peace, not a battlefield.

Setting Boundaries

Setting boundaries is like putting up a fence—not to keep each other out, but to keep the relationship safe. Defining acceptable behavior is crucial.

If scolding crosses the line for you, make that clear. Remember, even Jesus set boundaries when He cleared the temple (John 2:15-16).

Consistent enforcement of these boundaries is key. If you let things slide, it’s like building a fence with gaps—pretty useless.

Stick to your guns, and your relationship will be stronger for it.

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Seeking Professional Help

Sometimes, you need to call in the pros. Couples counseling can be a lifesaver. It’s like having a referee who can call fouls and keep the game fair.

Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”

Individual therapy is also a great option. It’s like tuning up your car—sometimes you need to work on yourself to keep the whole thing running smoothly.

If your boyfriend’s scolding is rooted in deeper issues, a therapist can help him unpack that luggage he’s been dragging around.

Self-Reflection and Personal Growth

Evaluating Your Own Behavior

Let’s flip the mirror for a second. Self-reflection is like doing a spiritual inventory. Are there things you could be doing differently? Self-assessment is crucial.

Psalm 139:23-24 says, “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

Identifying areas for improvement doesn’t mean you’re to blame for his scolding, but it’s about growing and becoming the best version of yourself.

Maybe there are triggers you can avoid or ways to communicate more effectively. It’s all part of the journey.

Building Self-Esteem and Confidence

Building self-esteem is like fortifying your inner castle. Personal development is key. Proverbs 31:25 speaks of a woman who “is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”

Investing in yourself—whether it’s through hobbies, education, or self-care—can make you feel more empowered and less affected by criticism.

Support networks are your emotional lifeline. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, like Ruth had Naomi (Ruth 1:16-17).

Whether it’s friends, family, or a faith community, having a strong support system can give you the confidence to address issues in your relationship head-on.

Remember, you’re not alone in this; even Moses had Aaron and Hur to hold up his arms when he grew tired (Exodus 17:12).

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When to Reconsider the Relationship

Recognizing Red Flags

Sometimes, love can blind us to the red flags waving right in front of us. Emotional abuse is a big one.

If his scolding crosses the line into emotional abuse, it’s like being stuck in a toxic wilderness, much like the Israelites wandering aimlessly (Numbers 14:33-34). Recognize it for what it is and know you deserve better.

Manipulative behavior is another glaring red flag. Remember Delilah manipulating Samson for her own gain (Judges 16:4-21)?

If your boyfriend’s actions feel more like a game of control than a partnership, it’s time to take a step back and reassess.

Making a Decision for Your Wellbeing

Your mental health is paramount. Prioritizing it is like putting on your own oxygen mask first. Philippians 4:7 speaks of “the peace of God, which transcends all understanding.”

If your relationship is robbing you of peace, it’s worth reconsidering. Your wellbeing should never be compromised.

Considering separation is never easy, but sometimes it’s necessary. Think of Abraham and Lot parting ways for the sake of peace (Genesis 13:8-9).

Sometimes, distance is the healthiest option. It’s not about giving up; it’s about choosing a path that leads to growth and healing.

Remember, you’re worthy of a love that uplifts, not one that tears you down.

Here’s the deal: you’ve got this. Life throws curveballs, but you’re strong enough to handle them. Remember Jeremiah 29:11? God’s got plans to give you hope and a future. Lean into that promise.

Surround yourself with people who lift you up, and don’t be afraid to seek help if you need it. You deserve a relationship that’s full of love, respect, and mutual understanding.

Keep your head up, stay true to yourself, and trust that better days are ahead. You’re on a journey, and every step you take is bringing you closer to the love and happiness you deserve.

To love, God bless.