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The more problematic contacts, the faster the “clock” ticks
The study involved 2,345 adults. About 28.8% reported at least one “hassler” in their social circle, and 10% reported two or more, according to Forbes. Researchers compared the participants’ social connections with indicators of epigenetic aging—changes used to assess biological age and associated health risks.
Each additional person who regularly caused problems was associated with an acceleration of epigenetic aging of approximately 1.5% per year. According to the researchers’ calculations, this corresponds to approximately nine months of additional biological age. However, the scientists emphasize that the study identified a statistical correlation but does not prove that a specific person directly causes accelerated aging in another.
The strongest correlation was observed in relationships that simultaneously provide support and are a source of stress. Close relatives and friends often fall into this category—relationships with them are more difficult to end or significantly limit.
Who Is More Likely to Encounter “Hasslers”
A “problematic” person isn’t necessarily aggressive or constantly involved in conflicts. It could be an outwardly polite relative, colleague, or boss, after interacting with whom a person regularly experiences tension, guilt, or emotional exhaustion.
Psychologists cite systematic violations of personal boundaries, belittling, passive aggression, and gaslighting—attempts to make a person doubt their own feelings and assessment of what is happening—as characteristic signs.
The study authors found “hasslers” more frequently among women, the unemployed, daily smokers, participants with lower self-rated health, and those who had experienced adverse childhood experiences. The researchers attribute this to greater psychosocial and medical vulnerability, rather than to the fact that members of these groups necessarily become “victims” of toxic relationships more often.
How to Reduce the Impact
It’s not always possible to completely cut off contact with a problematic person—especially if they’re a relative, colleague, or business partner. In such cases, psychologists recommend reducing the frequency of interaction, setting boundaries in advance, and putting important agreements in writing.
During conflicts, it’s best to avoid getting into emotional arguments and not waste energy on endless justifications. Short, neutral responses, limiting the sharing of personal information, and clearly stating which topics or forms of communication are unacceptable can help reduce the intensity of contact.
Researchers do not suggest that every unpleasant conversation should be considered a threat to health. They identify the key factor not as a single conflict, but as the chronic impact of negative social relationships. It is constant stress, rather than a single argument, that may influence biological aging processes.
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