T he “Silent Treatment” destroys the ability of spouses to communicate and resolve conflict. That is why we have called it a “Marriage Killer”. It is an expression of stonewalling. Stonewalling is just as it sounds: anything we do that is building a stone wall between us and our spouse. Stonewalling means refusing to communicate or cooperate.
Full Answer
Is the silent treatment damaging your marriage?
A lot of people use the silent treatment in marriage. However, this technique can actually be quite damaging to your relationship. If you’re on the receiving end of the silent treatment, no doubt you’re looking for how to put an end to it. Keep reading to develop further understanding of why it’s being used against you and how you can react to it.
What should I do when my husband gives me the silent treatment?
But your question was, what should you do when you are on the receiving end of the silent treatment? First, you need to work on not reacting to his passive form of aggression towards you. He tempts you to step into two unhealthy roles if you are not vigilant.
Is the silent treatment a good way to rebuild a relationship?
Silent treatment is a method that works both way if you use it right it's a good reason to rebuilt the relationship - cool off time - don't we all need it. If you use it because you think it's a game or something fun to do to control the other person or because with hatred or holding grudge then it's not right.
Is your silent spouse rejecting you with silence?
Sadly, even when you attempt to do so, the silent spouse often resists your attempts and further rejects you through continued silence (more punishment).
What does it mean when your husband gives you the silent treatment?
When one or both partners sulk, pout, or refuse to talk, they are exerting a cruel type of power in the relationship that not only shuts out their partner but also communicates that they do not care enough to try to communicate or collaborate. People use the silent treatment to control the situation or conversation.
How do you respond when your husband gives you the silent treatment?
How to Respond to the Silent Treatment from Your SpouseDon't assume you know the reason for the silent treatment. ... Explain to your Silent Spouse your need and desire to communicate. ... Be ready to listen, not just talk. ... Be gracious, not caustic or sarcastic, when your spouse does make the effort to talk with you.More items...
How damaging is the silent treatment in a relationship?
Findings from his in-depth analysis revealed that the silent treatment is 'tremendously' damaging to a relationship. It decreases relationship satisfaction for both partners, diminishes feelings of intimacy, and reduces the capacity to communicate in a way that's healthy and meaningful.
How do I deal with a stonewalling husband?
Ask for a break during conflicts. Stonewalling is often a result of feeling overwhelmed. ... Acknowledge that you are not the “fixer' in the relationship. ... Lead with empathy. ... Trust yourself. ... Prioritize self-care. ... Talk to a professional at Relish.
What type of person gives the silent treatment?
The silent treatment can happen in romantic relationships or any type of relationship, including between parents and children, friends, and co-workers. It can be a fleeting reaction to a situation in which one person feels angry, frustrated, or too overwhelmed to deal with a problem.
How long should silent treatment last?
If the perpetrator still refuses to acknowledge the victim's existence for long periods of time, it might be right to leave the relationship. In the end, whether it lasts four hours or four decades, the silent treatment says more about the person doing it than it does about the person receiving it.
What does a man's silence mean?
This simply means that to work things out mentally and emotionally, women may prefer to "talk it out" whereas men may prefer to "think it out" and "work it out"—alone. This is the instant in which he may withdraw in silence.
How do you ignore your husband who takes you for granted?
Start with explaining how you feel you are being taken for granted and how it is impacting the relationship. Maybe, your partner would understand you and your needs better when you explain it in plain words. Remember not to play any blame game and see how both of you can work together to find a solution.
What to do when your husband disregards your feelings?
Pay attention to what they show you about themselves. If you have a partner who dismisses your feelings about some topic, talk to them about how this affects you. Pick a time when you are calm. Explain that their response makes you feel hurt, angry, sad or whatever it is that you feel.
What is Gaslighting in a marriage?
The term gaslighting became popular in the 1960s. It is used to describe the manipulation of another person's perception of reality. Gaslighting is a common tool used by narcissistic and abusive spouses to control their partners. When done correctly, gaslighting can make a spouse doubt their own senses and memory.
What is emotional abandonment in marriage?
Emotional abandonment in marriage refers to feelings of neglect, being left out, and not being heard in a marriage. It is when one partner is so self-absorbed that they cannot see the troubles, tears or problems their spouse is going through.
What is narcissistic stonewalling?
Narcissist Stonewalling Stonewalling is the refusal to communicate with someone. This means that your spouse refuses to listen to you and your concerns. Stonewalling is one of the most prevalent narcissistic abuse techniques.