Guys can be particularly hard to discern as being good or bad. We can ask our friends for their opinion, but at the end of the day we need to be sure. So we turn to movies and TV to help us navigate the tangle we call life (or at least that's what I do).
1. Warner Huntington III with Any Girl
You're involved with a Warner if he doesn't see your worth. Dating someone who sees value in you is pivotal. This guy is supposed to be your best friend and number one confidant, but if he's discouraging you from going for the gold (like Warner does to Elle), he can't bring out the best in you. Being with a guy who supports you 100% will help you stay on track during those times you get discouraged.
2. Lucas Scott with Brooke
Before you kill me about how Peyton and Lucas were destined for each other: I totally know! His squinty, brooding eyes were perfect for her tortured abandonment issues. But you're dealing with a Lucas and Brooke situation if someone from the past is suspiciously around. I am a firm believer guys and girls can just be friends, but there are boundaries. Full disclosure of "hanging out" and "talking" are vital to create trust in your relationship. Keeping secrets and leaving out details are red flags that should be questioned.
3. Andy with Ann
PSA: You're not their mother. A relationship is two-way. Ann did everything for Andy. She cooked, cleaned, helped him find a job, was his personal servant when he broke his foot, but he took advantage of her giving spirit and made her carry the weight of their entire relationship as a consequence. Doing all the work – physically and emotionally – is detrimental to your mental health. Learn to say no to the "chores" you do for a relationship. If that's a problem, say 'no' to the relationship.
4. Dean with Rory
Seeing tremendous potential in someone is a wonderful quality. Encouragement is part of a healthy relationship. But if he's not seeing a bright future for himself, and keeps throwing pity parties like Dean does in season five, you can only do so much. You can't fix him, no matter how hard you try. The only person who can fix him is himself.
5. Spike with Buffy
Spike and Buffy were downright volatile during season six. Their entire relationship was based on lust. There is something to be said about the way she selfishly toyed with his emotions to boost her self-esteem, but she corrected herself. She walked away and Spike didn't get that. You must be straightforward when he's not getting the message and you truly want him to stop. Any level of obsession should be taken seriously.
Did we leave any bad boys off the list? Tell us in the comments!
