What is Emotional Stonewalling and How Can it Affect Intimate Relationships?
Emotional stonewalling is a defense mechanism that can occur in intimate relationships. It’s when one partner shuts down emotionally, which can be seen as a form of emotional neglect. This phenomenon has the potential to cause serious damage to the relationship, but there are steps that can be taken to help resolve the issues at hand. Read on to learn more about this issue and how Orlando Thrive Therapy can help.
What is Emotional Stonewalling?
Emotional stonewalling occurs when one partner in an intimate relationship begins to shut down emotionally, refusing to engage in meaningful dialogue or communication with their partner. This often leaves the other person feeling unheard, invalidated, and frustrated because they feel like their attempts at communication are falling on deaf ears. In some cases, this behavior may be intentional; however, it may also be unintentional due to internalized feelings or learned behaviors. In either case, it has the potential to cause serious damage to the relationship if not addressed properly.
Signs of Emotional Stonewalling
The signs of emotional stonewalling can vary from person to person depending on how they respond in different situations. Generally speaking, some of the more common signs include avoiding communication altogether (both verbal and nonverbal), refusing to listen actively or show empathy towards their partner’s thoughts/feelings, becoming defensive when confronted with difficult topics or conversations, and displaying a general lack of emotion or interest in engaging with their partner. If left unchecked for too long, these behaviors can lead partners in an intimate relationship feeling disconnected from each other and have a lasting impact on their overall wellbeing.
How Orlando Thrive Therapy Can Help
At Orlando Thrive Therapy our team of experienced therapists understands how damaging emotional stonewalling can be for both parties involved in an intimate relationship and we’re here to help! We specialize in helping individuals understand why these behaviors are occurring and offer strategies for managing difficult conversations without resorting to stonewalling tactics. Our goal is always to help our clients build stronger relationships that foster understanding and connection over time. Contact us today if you’re looking for support navigating this issue so you can get back on track!
Emotional stonewalling is an unfortunate reality for many people living in close relationships these days. The good news is that it doesn’t have to remain that way! With the right support system and access to resources like those offered by Orlando Thrive Therapy, individuals affected by this phenomenon have hope for restoring balance within their relationships once again. Don't hesitate—contact us today if you need assistance overcoming emotional stonewalling!
