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Is Erica in an emotionally abusive relationship with Kendal? 'Temptation Island' fans want her to 'leave him'

'Temptation Island' fans are convinced that Erica has been manipulated to think less of herself and that she deserves someone better than Kendal

Erica Washington and Kendal Kirkland's relationship on 'Temptation Island' is raising several eyebrows. Although the couple has been dating for two years, there seems to be a boatload of problems between them, beginning with Kendal questioning if Erica is good enough for him or is someone better out there for him. 

While Erica is head-over-heels in love with Kendal and is completely sure about the 26-year-old business owner being the man of her dreams, Kendal isn't on the same page. Even during their introduction on the show, we saw glimpses of him trying to constantly put her down and question her ambition and goals in life. So, needless to say, the couple was already off to a rough start. Things only seem to be going downhill for them as we get to learn more about their relationship.

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From the very beginning, it's clear that Kendal was the one who pushed Erica into coming to the show and he also forced her into agreeing on having no rules while they're on the island. The businessman is clear about his intentions of having a great time while on the island. The couples were split on the first night and spent it separately with the singles in their own villas. The next morning when the couples met briefly before they chose their date from among the singles, Kendal avoided making any eye contact with Erica and kept ignoring her while she tried to catch his attention.

This left her feeling deeply hurt, although she tried brushing it off by convincing herself that they were on the island to experience new things and people. When her new date began asking her about her relationship with Kendal, she broke down when she realized that she gives so much of herself to Kendal that she has no time or energy left for herself. While Erica still seems to be thinking of Kendal and worrying about him, he on the other hand seemed to be having the time of his life with his new date Alexcys Homan. 

Kendal and Alexcys gave each other lap dances and seemed to be getting very close. Later, during the bonfire, when the clip of Kendal and Alexcys giving each other lap dances was shown to Erica, she once again broke down and blamed herself for it. She tried justifying Kendal's actions by pointing out how it must be hard for him. She continued to put Kendal on the pedestal and started berating herself.

When Mark heard her shower praises on Kendal, he asked her if she didn't consider herself to be equal to Kendal. To this, she replied that she never felt she was good enough for him because he made her feel that way. She also explained that she always had to go the extra mile to win his affection and approval, which in turn left her convinced that she wasn't good enough for him.

When fans heard about Erica's relationship, they instantly began to see red flags and pointed out that she was in an abusive and toxic relationship. A fan wrote, "So Erica sees her boyfriend getting a lap dance and she blames herself. This poor angel is in an abusive relationship. She needs help. Also f her boyfriend. #TemptationIsland." Another fan tweeted, "So Kendal really got Erica out here feeling like she’s less than him! Naw sis you in a toxic relationship and need to leave him #TemptationIsland." Another said, "You can just tell the mental damage Kendall has caused Erica and it’s sad, he looks like a woodchuck and she’s gorgeous #TemptationIsland."

Another fan observed, "Erica has been manipulated her own relationship. Idk how Kendal has made her feel so low. It’s sad #temptationisland." Many fans also began hoping that Erica realizes her self-worth and leaves Kendal. A fan expressed, "Erica has been in an emotionally & mentally abusive relationship. Straight up. And I really hope she gets out. #TemptationIsland," shared a fan. "I hope by the end, Erica knows she’s the prize, gets back her confidence & knows how she deserves be treated. Kendal is playing games & making you feel inferior & insignificant on purpose so your self-esteem will be so low & convinced you can’t do any better #TemptationIsland," seconded a fan.

What do you think of Erica and Kendal's relationship? Let us know. 'Temptation Island' Season 3 airs every Tuesday at 10/9c only on USA Network.