What is the reason behind some people's need for others, even if they are unhelpful or toxic?

 Humans are inherently social creatures, and this sociability extends to forming and maintaining relationships, even with individuals who might not always be beneficial to their well-being. This need often stems from a deep-rooted fear of loneliness or abandonment. Loneliness is not just a state of solitude, but it can also trigger psychological stress and a host of emotional responses that can be as harmful as physical pain. The desire to connect with others, even if those others are not positively contributing to one's life, is a survival mechanism wired into our DNA. It is an instinctive attempt to avoid isolation, which historically meant increased vulnerability to threats.

Another contributing factor to maintaining relationships with unhelpful or toxic individuals is the complexity of human emotions and bonds. Emotional dependency can develop over time, fostering a sense of obligation or loyalty to someone despite their negative impact. For instance, childhood relationships with parents or siblings, who might be perceived as toxic, are not easily severed due to the depth of emotional investment and shared history. There is also often hope or a belief in the possibility of change within the other individual, which can make a person cling to a harmful relationship longer than is healthy.

Social and cultural pressures also play significant roles in influencing individuals to stay in less-than-ideal relationships. Societal norms and values can dictate that maintaining certain relationships is crucial, regardless of their toxicity. For instance, many cultures place a high value on familial bonds or long-standing friendships, and breaking these connections can lead to social stigma. Additionally, the portrayal of enduring adversarial relationships in media as something that can eventually be triumphed over encourages individuals to tolerate toxicity with the expectation of a positive transformation, often overlooking the realistic outcomes and personal cost of such endurance.