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Defensiveness in Relationships: How To Handle A Defensive Partner And Relationship Challenges

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Ever found yourself in a heated argument with your partner, where you’re both just talking past each other?

Yeah, you’re not alone. Defensiveness can sneak into our conversations like an uninvited guest, turning what could have been a productive discussion into World War III.

It’s like we’re wearing armor that’s supposed to protect us, but really, it’s just keeping us from connecting.

The thing is, we often don’t even realize we’re being defensive. It’s like our brains hit the panic button and suddenly, we’re in survival mode, fighting off what we perceive as an attack.

But here’s the twist: what if we could recognize these moments and turn them into opportunities for deeper connection? Stick around, and let’s explore how ditching the armor can actually bring us closer.

Understanding Defensiveness in Relationships

Defining Defensiveness

Defensiveness in relationships is when you shield yourself from perceived criticism or attack by responding in ways that prevent meaningful dialogue. It’s like armoring up in a verbal joust when what’s needed is an open-hearted chat over coffee.

Characteristics of Defensiveness in Interpersonal Dynamics

When defensiveness shows up, it’s never alone. It brings friends: denial, counterattack, and evasion. Suddenly, a simple “Did you forget to take out the trash?” feels like an accusation deserving a litany of excuses. Imagine your partner, Alex, accusing you of hogging the remote.

Instead of acknowledging it, you retaliate with a reminder of their unsolicited Netflix binge last week. That’s defensiveness, turning a living room squabble into a cold war over entertainment.

Differentiating Between Defensive Responses and Other Conflict Behaviors

Defensive responses are unique because they’re more about protecting ego than resolving the issue at hand.

Suppose in a situation where your cooking skills are playfully critiqued, instead of laughing it off or engaging in banter, you respond with a harsh, “Well, let’s see you do better!”

That’s defensiveness. It’s different from constructive conflict behaviors, where the focus is on understanding and growth, rather than winning the argument or shielding one’s pride.

The Impact of Defensiveness on Relationships

Defensiveness blocks the runway for relationship growth, setting up roadblocks that make honest communication nearly impossible.

How Defensiveness Affects Communication and Connection

When defensiveness takes the wheel, communication crashes into a wall. It transforms an open dialogue into a battlefield where every sentence is a grenade. Imagine planning a weekend getaway with your partner, Chris.

Instead of discussing preferences, every suggestion you make is met with reasons why it won’t work.

Soon, what should have been an exciting planning session turns into a contest of who can shoot down more ideas. This blockage disrupts the flow of genuine connection, replacing it with frustration and silence.

The Long-Term Consequences of Persistent Defensiveness

If defensiveness becomes a relationship’s background music, it can lead to emotional detachment and resentment.

Over time, the walls built by defensiveness become so high that scaling them to reach each other feels like an impossible task.

Imagine years of accumulated unsaid words and unresolved disputes, where every attempted conversation ends before it begins.

This chronic cycle can erode the foundation of trust and understanding, leaving a shell of a relationship where intimacy once thrived.

Root Causes of Defensiveness

Underlying Insecurities and Fears

The Role of Self-esteem and Vulnerability in Triggering Defensiveness

You know how it feels when you’re just not feeling 100%? That’s often when defensiveness in relationships kicks in.

Low self-esteem and vulnerability can make you more likely to perceive comments or actions as attacks, even when they’re not meant that way.

It’s not about what your partner says; it’s about the doubts you’re carrying around like extra baggage.

Ever noticed how a simple comment about forgetting to take out the trash can spiral into a full-blown argument about respect and reliability? That’s your self-esteem and vulnerability steering the ship.

Examples of Insecurities That Lead to Defensive Behaviors

Feeling replaceable at work can make you hypersensitive to your partner’s criticisms at home.

Worrying about physical appearance can turn a compliment into a perceived jab. “You look nice today” suddenly becomes “What? I don’t look nice other days?”

Previous Experiences and Traumas

How Past Relationships and Traumas Contribute to Defensive Reactions

Past relationships and traumas are like ghosts haunting your current relationship, influencing how you react without you even realizing it.

If your ex was always critiquing your cooking, you might find yourself snapping at your current partner for just suggesting pizza for dinner.

It’s not about the pizza; it’s about the past. Your brain’s trying to protect you from getting hurt again, but it’s like using an umbrella to fend off a missile. Well-intentioned, but not exactly effective.

The Importance of Recognizing and Addressing Past Hurts

Spotting and dealing with these past hurts is crucial. It’s like Sherlock Holmes solving a case inside your head. You’ve got to identify the clues – why does a comment about dishes make you see red?

Once you’ve pieced it together, you can start challenging those knee-jerk defensive reactions.

Picture this: your partner mentions the dishes, and instead of launching into World War III, you take a breath and respond calmly. That’s growth, my friend.

Remember, tackling defensiveness in relationships isn’t about winning or losing. It’s about understanding where it’s coming from and addressing those root causes.

And hey, nobody’s perfect. Sometimes you’ll slip up, and that’s okay.

The important thing is to keep trying, keep communicating, and keep that sense of humor about you. Who knows? Maybe next time you forget the trash, you’ll both just laugh it off.

Signs and Symptoms of Defensiveness

Verbal and Non-Verbal Indicators

Recognizing Defensive Speech Patterns and Body Language

You know you’re dealing with defensiveness in your relationship when every conversation feels like a battlefield. Defensive speech patterns include deflecting blame, interrupting, and using “always” or “never” statements.

For example, your partner saying, “You never listen to me,” even when you’re all ears. On the flip side, body language speaks volumes. Crossed arms, avoidance of eye contact, and rolling eyes are the non-verbal cues screaming, “I’m on defense mode!”

Let’s not forget about Frank. Every time his partner brought up a sensitive topic, he’d literally turn his back, creating a physical barrier. Classic Frank.

Identifying Changes in Tone, Avoidance, and Justifications

Changes in tone, such as sudden sharpness or increased volume, often signal defensiveness. It’s like when you mention something minor, and your partner reacts as if you’ve accused them of grand larceny.

Avoidance is another tell-tale sign – answering a question with another question to sidestep the issue. “Why do you think I did that?” becomes a favorite retort.

Justifications are defensiveness’s best friends. They’re those elaborate stories your partner concocts to explain away any blame. “I was late because a meteor landed right in front of my car” – okay, maybe not that extreme, but you get the picture.

Emotional and Behavioral Effects

The Emotional Impact of Defensiveness on Both Partners

Defensiveness doesn’t just put a strain on conversations; it takes a heavy emotional toll on both partners. The defensive partner often feels misunderstood or attacked, leading to feelings of isolation.

Meanwhile, the other partner might feel frustrated, hurt, and unheard. It’s a lose-lose situation.

Picture Lisa, who felt so overwhelmed by her partner’s constant defensiveness that she started doubting her feelings and thoughts. It was as if she was participating in an emotional tug-of-war with no end in sight.

Behavioral Changes Resulting from Defensiveness in the Relationship

The ripple effects of defensiveness on behavior can’t be overstated. Couples might find themselves engaging in less meaningful conversations to avoid potential conflict.

Some start hiding their true feelings or walking on eggshells around each other, leading to a chasm of emotional distance.

Then there’s Jake, who became a master at evading any deep conversations with his partner. It got to the point where discussing the weather seemed like a safe, yet tragically shallow, interaction.

It’s clear that defensiveness is more than just a minor hiccup in communication; it’s an issue that if left unchecked, can erode the very foundation of trust and openness that relationships thrive on.

Addressing and Overcoming Defensiveness

Initiating Open and Honest Conversations

To kick things off, opening up a dialogue about defensiveness requires courage and tact. It’s like approaching a sleeping bear; you want to be as gentle as possible to avoid getting mauled.

Remember, this isn’t about accusation but understanding.

Strategies for Broaching the Topic of Defensiveness Gently

Start by choosing the right moment. Timing is everything. Bringing up defensiveness in the heat of an argument is like lighting a match near a gas leak – explosive. Instead, find a calm, neutral time when you’re both receptive.

Use “I” statements to express your feelings without casting blame. For example, “I feel disconnected when we can’t talk openly.”

Next, focus on the behavior, not the person. Frame your concerns around specific incidents rather than labeling your partner as “defensive.” This way, it’s about addressing the issue, not attacking their character.

Encouraging Non-Confrontational Dialogue

Maintain a supportive tone. Imagine you’re talking to a friend who’s got spinach between their teeth. You want to be helpful, not mocking.

Acknowledge that it’s normal to feel defensive but emphasize the goal of mutual understanding and growth.

Encourage your partner to share their thoughts and feelings. Often, defensiveness comes from feeling misunderstood or not heard. By creating space for them to express themselves, you’re laying the groundwork for more open communication.

Practicing Active Listening and Empathy

Once the conversation starts, it’s your turn to truly listen. That means putting aside your rebuttals and genuinely trying to understand your partner’s perspective.

It’s about hearing the emotions behind the words, not just the words themselves.

The Importance of Listening Without Judgment

Active listening is your superpower here. It involves nodding, making eye contact, and occasionally paraphrasing what your partner has said to show you’re engaged and understanding.

This doesn’t mean you agree with everything, but it shows respect for their feelings.

Another part of this is holding back immediate reactions or solutions. Sometimes, we jump to fix things when what the other person really needs is to be heard.

Techniques for Showing Empathy and Understanding

Expressing empathy is about putting yourself in their shoes. Try phrases like, “I can see how that made you feel…” to validate their feelings.

This doesn’t mean you’re taking sides, but acknowledging their emotions can bridge gaps.

Use examples from your own experiences to relate but be cautious not to pivot the focus onto yourself. The goal is to make your partner feel seen and understood, not to one-up them with your own stories.

Preventing Defensiveness in Relationships

Building a Foundation of Trust and Security

Trust and security are your VIP tickets to a defensiveness-free relationship. It sounds like a no-brainer, but getting there requires genuine effort and commitment from both parties. Imagine trying to build a sandcastle with dry sand; without trust as your water, things just won’t stick.

Steps to Create a Safe Emotional Environment

Creating a safe emotional environment is like setting up a cozy blanket fort where both of you can hide from the world’s dragons. Here’s how to get started:

Express Consistent Support: Sure, cheering for your partner during their karaoke moments counts, but support needs to extend to listening during tough times too.

Maintain Privacy: What happens in the blanket fort stays in the blanket fort. Sharing personal tidbits without permission is a big no-no.

Set Clear Boundaries: Knowing each other’s limits is like having a map for your fort—it helps avoid accidentally stepping on any emotional landmines.

Remember Mike? He thought surprise visits to Sara at work were romantic until he understood her need for professional boundaries. Adjustments like these can keep the emotional environment chill.

Encouraging Vulnerability and Openness

Now that you’ve got your safe space, it’s time to encourage vulnerability and openness. Think of it as inviting your partner to share their deepest fears without the risk of being judged. Sounds scary? Maybe at first, but it’s incredibly rewarding.

Lead by Example: Be the vulnerability you wish to see in your relationship. Share your own fears and insecurities.

Ask Open-Ended Questions: Ditch the yes or no interrogations. Opt for questions that require more than a one-word answer, which encourages deeper conversations.

Jenny and Tom mastered this when Tom admitted he was terrified of spiders. Jenny didn’t laugh; instead, she helped him face his fear, showing vulnerability can strengthen bonds.

Enhancing Communication Skills

Communication is the golden key to warding off defensiveness. Without it, you’re basically trying to read each other’s minds, which is about as effective as using a spoon to dig a tunnel.

Developing Effective Conflict Resolution Techniques

Conflict is inevitable, but turning your living room into a debate club is optional. Developing effective conflict resolution techniques ensures that when disagreements arise, you’re both equipped with the tools to navigate through them without resorting to defensiveness.

Practice Active Listening: This means actually hearing what your partner is saying, not just planning your counter-argument.

Use “I” Statements: Transform “You always” into “I feel.” It’s less about accusing and more about expressing.

Linda and Harry used to argue about Harry’s gaming habits until they started framing their issues with “I” statements, turning heated arguments into constructive conversations.

Fostering Positive Affirmations and Feedback

Everyone likes a pat on the back now and then. Fostering positive affirmations and feedback creates an atmosphere where both partners feel appreciated and valued, which can dramatically reduce the need for defensiveness.

Recognize Small Efforts: Noticed your partner took out the trash without being asked? Let them know it didn’t go unseen.

Offer Constructive Feedback: Feedback doesn’t have to be a euphemism for criticism. Frame it positively to foster growth and understanding.

Alice started leaving thank-you notes for Bob whenever he performed small acts of kindness around the house. This small gesture not only made Bob feel appreciated but also encouraged him to express his gratitude more openly.

The Role of Self-awareness and Self-regulation

Reflecting on Personal Triggers and Responses

Understanding your own triggers is a crucial first step toward reducing defensiveness in relationships. Imagine this: You’re chatting about weekend plans when suddenly the conversation turns tense. Why? Perhaps a comment brushed against an unhealed wound, one you hadn’t even recognized was there.

Techniques for Identifying Personal Triggers of Defensiveness

First off, keep a journal of moments you felt defensive. Jot down the who, what, and whys. Patterns will emerge—trust me. For instance, you might notice that criticisms, even mild ones from your partner about forgetting to take out the trash, set you off. Or maybe it’s when you feel your independence is being questioned. Identifying these triggers helps you prepare for and navigate future interactions more smoothly.

Strategies for Managing and Regulating Emotional Responses

Once you’ve pinpointed your triggers, it’s time to work on your poker face. Not really—but managing your emotional responses is key. Techniques like deep breathing, counting to ten, or practicing mindfulness can help you stay calm and collected. Imagine you’re a duck: calm on the surface, paddling like hell underneath. This way, you can respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.

Personal Growth and Development

Fostering self-awareness and self-regulation goes hand in hand with personal growth. It’s about becoming a better version of yourself, not just for you but for your relationships too.

Committing to Self-improvement and Emotional Intelligence

Investing in your emotional intelligence is like upgrading your relationship software. Read books, attend workshops, or even seek therapy to enhance your understanding of emotions—yours and others’. Stories abound of individuals who, after committing to self-improvement, found their relationships transformed. They became more empathetic, better listeners, and yes, less defensive.

The Importance of Personal Accountability in Relationship Dynamics

Owning up to your part in conflicts is tough but crucial. It’s easy to play the blame game; it’s harder to say, “I messed up.”

But acknowledging your missteps and working on them not only shows maturity, it also sets the stage for healthier interactions.

Your partner is more likely to respond positively when they see you’re making a genuine effort to change. So next time a disagreement arises, take a moment to consider your role in it.

Personal accountability might just be the secret ingredient to a less defensive, more harmonious relationship.

Seeking Professional Help

When to Consider Couples Therapy or Counseling

Knowing when it’s time to hit the therapist’s couch as a duo can be tricky. You might think, “Oh, we’ll work it out,” until you’re using the blender at 2 AM to drown out each other’s voices. If your relationship’s default mode is DEFCON 1 over who left the milk out, it’s time.

Recognizing the Signs That Professional Support is Needed

First off, let’s talk red flags. If you’re keeping score of who’s messed up more this month or practicing your apology in the mirror because you’re doing it so often, you need a ref to call the fouls.

Other signs include feeling like roommates instead of soulmates, or when “We need to talk” sends you both into panic mode.

Imagine Jeff and Tina, who couldn’t decide on a movie without World War III breaking out. They realized they needed help when their dog started hiding at “Netflix and chill” time. If you’re nodding along, it might be time to book that session.

The Benefits of Seeking Help from a Relationship Expert

Getting help from someone who won’t take sides in the Great Dishwasher Loading Debate of 2023 can be a game-changer. Benefits include learning the art of fighting fair because “You always” and “You never” accusations get you nowhere.

A professional offers tools for healthy communication, ensuring you’re both heard and not just planning your next argument while pretending to listen.

Plus, it’s like having a love detective who helps uncover the real issues under the petty squabbles. Maybe you’re not mad about the dishes; maybe it’s about feeling unappreciated.

Suddenly, you’re not just surviving but thriving, high-fiving over who unloaded the dishwasher without being asked.

Exploring Individual Therapy

Sometimes, to fix us, we gotta fix ‘me’ first. It’s about getting your own oxygen mask on before assisting others. If you’re wondering why you go into beast mode at the mere mention of your partner’s ex, it might be time for some solo exploration.

The Role of Individual Counseling in Addressing Personal Triggers

It turns out that screaming into your pillow might not be as effective as chatting with a trained professional about why you’re always on edge. Individual counseling can help identify why certain comments make you want to launch the remote control.

It’s like becoming a self-awareness ninja, dodging triggers, and understanding reactions with grace.

Picture Brian, who discovered that his irritation at his girlfriend’s laughter wasn’t about the laugh. It was about his own insecurities from a past relationship.

Talk about an “ah-ha” moment. That kind of insight can transform not just your relationship but your whole outlook.

Enhancing Personal Coping Strategies Through Therapy

Finally, therapy’s great for beefing up your coping toolbox. Ever find yourself stress-eating chocolate cake in the pantry?

Therapy can help find healthier outlets, like talking it out or hitting the gym instead of the cake. It’s about building resilience, so when life throws curveballs, you’re ready to catch them.

And let’s face it, learning to manage stress and emotions makes you not just a better partner but a happier person.

Suddenly, you’re not sweating the small stuff. You’re exploring life’s ups and downs with a bit more ease. And who wouldn’t want that?

Rebuilding Trust and Connection

Moving Beyond Defensiveness

To move beyond defensiveness, you gotta first acknowledge it’s there. Think of it like admitting you snore. It’s not the most flattering revelation, but it’s a start to solving the problem.

Steps Towards Healing and Reconciliation

Imagine you’re in a game where the goal is not to win but to understand. That’s where healing starts. First, Listen Without Interrupting. Consider it a challenge—can you let your partner finish their thoughts without jumping in?

Next up, Acknowledge the Hurt. This doesn’t mean agreeing with every point, but recognizing the feelings involved.

Remember, “I see you’re hurt because…” goes a long way. Finally, Apologize Sincerely. And no, “I’m sorry you feel that way” doesn’t count. Think more, “I’m sorry for what I did, and here’s how I’ll make it better.”

Let me tell you about Alex and Jamie. After a particularly nasty fight about dirty dishes, they decided to sit down and really listen to each other.

It turned out, the dishes weren’t the issue—it was about feeling unappreciated. Once they acknowledged this, they could start fixing the real problem.

Strategies for Re-establishing Trust and Emotional Intimacy

Rebuilding trust is like fixing a leak. Ignore it, and you’ll be swimming in a pool of resentment. Create a Safe Space for Honesty by setting times to talk about your feelings without judgement.

Express Appreciation Regularly, not just for what they do but for who they are. And don’t forget about Quality Time Together.

Remember, binge-watching your favorite series can be a bonding experience if you do it right.

When Sam decided to surprise Jordan with a weekend getaway, it wasn’t just about the trip. It was about showing they valued their time together. It turned a new page for them, one where they felt more connected than ever.

Strengthening the Relationship for the Future

It’s all about keeping that spark alive and turning those embers into a lasting fire.

Committing to Continuous Communication and Growth

Ever heard of the “maintenance phase” in relationships? It’s when you keep the car running smoothly instead of waiting for it to break down.

Schedule Regular Check-Ins—think of them as your relationship’s tune-ups. Be Open to Feedback, even if it stings a bit. And always, Encourage Each Other’s Goals and Dreams. Being each other’s cheerleader can make all the difference.

Case in point, when Taylor shared their dream of starting a food blog, Morgan didn’t just nod along. They helped taste test recipes, offered to take photos, and even learned a bit about web design. It was a team effort.

Celebrating Improvements and Reaffirming Commitment

Finally, don’t forget to party. Well, not literally (unless you want to), but do celebrate the wins, big and small.

Recognize Progress—maybe you’ve gotten better at not interrupting, or you’re spending more quality time together. Whatever it is, toast to it.

And, Renew Your Promises. Sometimes, a simple “I’m still glad I chose you, and I’d do it again” can reignite that relationship magic.

Like the time Casey and Alex, after months of working through their issues, decided to renew their vows. It wasn’t a grand event—just them, a couple of close friends, and the promise that they were in this together, for the long haul.

Conclusion

So there you have it. Moving past defensiveness isn’t just about avoiding arguments. It’s about building a stronger, more connected relationship.

Whether you’re taking cues from Alex and Jamie or getting inspired by Casey and Alex’s vow renewal, the key is to keep the lines of communication open.

Remember to listen, appreciate, and spend quality time with your partner. And don’t forget to celebrate the small victories along the way.

It’s these moments that reinforce your commitment and show how far you’ve come together. Keep pushing forward, and you’ll find that your relationship can weather any storm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the root cause of defensiveness?

The root cause of defensiveness often lies in feelings of insecurity, fear of criticism, or past experiences of being judged or misunderstood. It can act as a protective mechanism to guard against perceived threats to one’s self-esteem or to avoid vulnerability.

Why am I so defensive in my relationship?

Being defensive in a relationship may stem from past relationship traumas, fear of vulnerability, lack of trust, or feeling insecure about your worthiness or the stability of the relationship. It’s a response to protect oneself from potential hurt or criticism.

What kind of trauma causes defensiveness?

Traumas that can lead to defensiveness include emotional, verbal, or physical abuse in past relationships (romantic or familial), experiences of betrayal, rejection, or consistent criticism during formative years, leading to a heightened sense of self-protection.

How do you respond when your partner is defensive?

When your partner is defensive, respond with empathy and patience. Aim to communicate calmly and clearly, emphasizing that your intent is not to criticize but to understand and resolve the issue together. Ask open-ended questions to encourage discussion rather than confrontation and acknowledge their feelings to help them feel heard and safe.

What is the first step in rebuilding trust in a relationship?

The first step in rebuilding trust is moving beyond defensiveness to understand and acknowledge the hurt caused, listening actively and empathizing with your partner’s feelings.

How can couples resolve deeper issues in their relationship?

Couples can resolve deeper issues by listening to each other, acknowledging the hurt caused, and offering sincere apologies. This approach was exemplified by couples like Alex and Jamie in the article.

What strategies can help re-establish trust and emotional intimacy?

Creating a safe space for honesty, expressing appreciation, and spending quality time together are key strategies for re-establishing trust and emotional intimacy in a relationship.

Why is continuous communication important in relationships?

Continuous communication is important as it allows for regular check-ins, openness to feedback, and supports each other’s goals, fostering growth and understanding in the relationship.

How can couples celebrate improvements in their relationship?

Couples can celebrate improvements by reaffirming their commitment to each other, such as renewing vows. This symbolizes their dedication and ongoing efforts towards a stronger, more intimate connection.

Can ongoing communication help reduce defensiveness in a relationship?

Ongoing open and honest communication can significantly reduce defensiveness by building trust, ensuring both partners feel heard and understood, and creating a safe space for expressing vulnerabilities without fear of judgment.

How does building self-awareness contribute to overcoming defensiveness?

Building self-awareness helps in recognizing the triggers and underlying fears that lead to defensiveness, allowing individuals to address these issues more constructively and open themselves to feedback and growth within the relationship.

What role does active listening play in de-escalating defensive behavior?

Active listening plays a crucial role in de-escalating defensive behavior by making the defensive partner feel valued and understood, which can lower their guard and open the door to more productive and less charged conversations.

How can therapy assist individuals dealing with defensiveness rooted in trauma?

Therapy can provide a supportive space to explore and understand the origins of defensiveness, work through past traumas, and develop healthier coping mechanisms for dealing with feelings of vulnerability, ultimately improving how individuals engage in relationships.

What are the examples of defensiveness in relationships?

Examples of defensiveness in relationships include denying responsibility, making excuses, counterattacking when feeling criticized, and using sarcastic or mocking tones in response to feedback or concerns raised by a partner.

How do you deal with defensiveness in relationships?

Dealing with defensiveness involves approaching conversations with empathy, focusing on your feelings and experiences rather than placing blame, actively listening, and reassuring your partner of your intentions to understand and resolve issues together, not to criticize or attack.

How do you talk to someone who interprets everything as an attack?

When talking to someone who interprets everything as an attack, use “I” statements to express how you feel, focus on specific behaviors rather than character judgments, and emphasize your desire for a positive outcome. Patience and a calm demeanor can help prevent escalation.

When someone gets defensive, are they guilty?

Defensiveness does not necessarily indicate guilt; it often reflects fear, insecurity, or past traumas. It’s a protective mechanism used to safeguard one’s self-esteem or avoid vulnerability, not solely an admission of wrongdoing.

What are the examples of defensive communication?

Examples of defensive communication include interrupting, denying fault or responsibility, justifying actions with excuses, blaming others, and responding to feedback with counter-criticisms instead of considering the message.

How do you handle defensiveness in communication?

Handle defensiveness by maintaining a calm and open approach, using empathetic listening, clarifying your intentions, and encouraging an environment where both parties feel safe to express their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or attack.

How does defensiveness destroy relationships?

Defensiveness can destroy relationships by creating barriers to effective communication, preventing resolution of conflicts, fostering resentment, and hindering emotional intimacy and trust. It blocks the ability to hear each other’s perspectives and work together towards understanding and growth.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Felix Prasetyo is the founder and publisher at Lifengoal, covering relationships, social skills, and personal growth. Felix holds a degree in Computer Science from the University of British Columbia, and has also contributed to other media publications such as Addicted2Success.com and YogiApproved.

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