Communication plays a crucial role in nurturing a healthy romantic relationship. When communication is effective, partners feel secure expressing their feelings openly and allowing their significant other the space to do the same. Healthy and open communication lays the foundation for enduring bonds.
Dr. John Gottman, a clinical psychologist, and the founder of the Gottman Institute, has noted that a couple's communication patterns during their dating phase often predict the success of their marital relationship.
Research identifies three primary communication styles: assertive, passive, and aggressive. Additionally, non-verbal communication plays a significant role in relationships.
Assertive Communication:
Assertive communication is considered the healthiest form of communication. Individuals who employ assertive communication are direct yet empathetic toward their partners. They avoid ambiguity, enabling their partners to understand them clearly. Assertive communicators express their needs respectfully without blaming their partners.
Passive Communication:
Individuals with passive communication tendencies often have low self-esteem and an intense fear of abandonment. They tend to avoid conflicts and decision-making, accommodating their partners even when dissatisfied. In extreme cases, they may leave relationships without advocating for their own needs.
Aggressive Communication:
Aggressive communicators tend to insist on their rights, even when they are in the wrong. They typically have a low tolerance for emotional discomfort, frequently becoming upset and prioritising their own needs over their partner's feelings. This communication style often leads to the escalation of conflicts.
Non-verbal Communication:
In addition to verbal communication, nonverbal cues play a significant role in expressing feelings, needs, and attitudes. Positive nonverbal communication, which includes relaxed posture, mirroring body language, and maintaining eye contact, enhances understanding and connections. Negative nonverbal behaviours, which include silent treatment, throwing and banging objects, and sulking, cause confusion and fear and are thus harmful to the relationships.
Tips for Healthy Communication:
Here are some tips for fostering healthy communication:
Process your feelings: Take time to understand your emotions and why you feel them before discussing them with your partner.
Timing: Choose an appropriate time to communicate with your partner, avoiding discussions when both partners are busy or tired.Â
Use "I" statements: Express your feelings using "I" statements to avoid blame and defensiveness.
Listen: Practise active listening and seek to understand your partner's perspective before responding.
Focus on conflict resolution: Instead of aiming to win arguments, prioritise finding solutions that leave both partners feeling understood and satisfied.
Signs of Unhealthy Communication:
Unhealthy communication in relationships often involves yelling, giving silent treatment, and avoiding honest expression of feelings, leading to unresolved conflicts and resentment. If you recognise patterns of poor communication in your relationship, consider seeking individual therapy to process your emotions and couples therapy to improve communication dynamics together.
Keywords: communication, couple, relationships, Gottman, romantic, feelings, conflict resolution, healthy
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