"I (25F) have face blindness, my BF (24M) likes to test me.

Not long after posting, OP shared an update.

Navigating a relationship with prosopagnosia, or face blindness, can be challenging, particularly when a partner does not fully understand the implications of this condition. A recent situation highlights the emotional strain and confusion that can arise when a partner intentionally tests someone’s ability to recognize them.

In this case, a woman with face blindness experienced significant distress due to her boyfriend’s repeated tests of her ability to recognize him after altering his appearance. These tests, which included changing his hairstyle or shaving his beard without prior notice, were intended as jokes but instead caused her considerable anxiety. Despite her attempts to communicate the impact of these actions, her boyfriend persisted, leading to increased emotional stress.

The woman shared her experience, revealing how the boyfriend’s behavior not only triggered anxiety but also led to moments of self-doubt. On one occasion, the boyfriend pretended to be someone else after a pleasant date, causing her panic until he eventually admitted it was a joke. This incident, while eventually resolved, took a toll on her sense of security and comfort in the relationship.

Reactions from others have underscored the severity of the situation. Many have pointed out that intentionally causing someone distress, particularly when it involves their disability, is not acceptable. Gaslighting, or making someone doubt their reality, is particularly harmful and is not a behavior to be excused as a joke. The consensus among responses is that such behavior can be seen as emotionally abusive and indicative of a lack of genuine care and empathy.

In response to these insights, the woman acknowledged the gravity of the situation and planned to address it directly with her boyfriend. She has been encouraged to communicate clearly that exploiting her disability for amusement is unacceptable. If the boyfriend continues to dismiss her concerns or fails to change his behavior, it may be necessary to reevaluate the relationship’s viability.

For individuals with face blindness, it is crucial that partners approach the condition with understanding and respect. Ensuring open communication and empathy can help maintain a supportive and healthy relationship, free from harmful behaviors that exploit or exacerbate the challenges of living with a disability.