Repeated toxic relationships can be caused by a variety of factors, such as familiarity and comfort with unhealthy dynamics, low self-esteem and self-worth, unresolved traumas from the past, co-dependent behaviors, unconscious patterns, fear of loneliness, a hope for change, manipulation and gaslighting, lack of awareness, and unmet needs. To gain insight into one's tendencies in these areas, an assessment with questions to answer honestly can help. Signs to watch out for include being attracted to emotionally distant or unavailable people, staying in an unhappy relationship, prioritizing a partner's needs, relying on validation, rationalizing hurtful behavior, feeling captive and developing Stockholm Syndrome, and repeating past relationship patterns. To gain understanding of these patterns and develop healthier behaviors and relationships, seeking support from mental health professionals can be beneficial.