HuffPost discussed the concept of “toxic forgiveness” with Self Space therapist Emily West, who explained that this kind of “pressured or superficial forgiveness” can actually be detrimental to everyone involved, as well as the relationship as a whole.

From “Toxic Forgiveness’ Is Damaging Your Relationships. Here’s How To Tell If You’re Doing It” in HuffPost

You’ve probably heard phrases like “toxic person” and “toxic positivity,” but what about “toxic forgiveness”? While you won’t find the phrase in a textbook, you’ll probably be able to relate to the concept.

“My understanding of it is that it’s really describing a pressured or superficial forgiveness,” said Emily West, a licensed mental health counselor at Self Space Therapy in Seattle. West added that it can happen when someone feels an internal or external pressure to rush to pardon someone else without taking the time to process their own feelings.

The adage “forgive and forget” sums up this notion well. And certain kinds of people may be more likely to deal with toxic forgiveness than others.