Yes, toxic people can potentially influence and make others toxic to some extent. The way people behave and interact with each other can have a significant impact on their attitudes and behaviors. When you spend time with toxic individuals, their negative traits and behaviors may start to rub off on you.
Here are a few ways toxic people can make others toxic:
Modeling behavior: Humans tend to imitate the behaviors they observe in others. If you're consistently around someone who exhibits toxic traits like manipulation, hostility, or selfishness, you may inadvertently pick up some of these behaviors.
Emotional contagion: Emotions can be contagious. If you spend time with someone who is consistently negative, critical, or angry, their emotional state can start affecting your own mood and outlook on life.
Normalization of toxic behavior: When toxic behavior is consistently displayed, it can create a skewed perception of what is considered acceptable behavior. Over time, you may start to think that such behavior is normal or justified.
Lowered self-esteem: Toxic individuals often engage in behaviors that undermine the self-esteem of others. If you're consistently subjected to criticism, belittling, or manipulation, it can erode your self-confidence and contribute to adopting toxic traits.
Defensive reactions: Dealing with a toxic person can be emotionally draining, leading to defensive responses and heightened stress levels. In an attempt to protect yourself, you may resort to toxic behaviors.
Cognitive dissonance: If you find yourself in a situation where a close friend or family member is toxic, it can create cognitive dissonance. You might feel conflicted between acknowledging the toxicity and maintaining the relationship, leading to inner turmoil and potential changes in your own behavior.
However, it's essential to note that not everyone will react in the same way. People have different levels of resilience and self-awareness, which can impact how they respond to toxic influences. Recognizing the signs of toxicity in yourself and others is crucial for personal growth and maintaining healthy relationships. If you find that you're becoming toxic due to the influence of others, it's essential to take steps to address the situation, set boundaries, and seek support if necessary.