4 hurtful communication patterns in relationships: Therapist explains

From contempt to stonewalling, here are four harmful communication patterns that can be very toxic in a relationship.

Published on: Jul 09, 2024 6:00 PM IST

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Communication is one of the most important foundation blocks of a healthy and happy relationship. The way we communicate, the things we share and the tone we use together determines the communication pattern. “Most of us can’t think logically or have a civil conversation during heightened conflict, let alone engage in constructive conversation or create space for connection and growth. Many of us haven’t learned healthy communication tools. So, what now? How can we handle conflicts healthily and grow from them,” wrote Therapist Susanne Wolf. (Unsplash)

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Criticism: Sharing feedback is healthy, while constantly attacking and blaming the partner for everything they do can be very harmful.  (Unsplash)

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Defensiveness: Often people defend themselves instead of taking responsibility for the mistakes made by them. This can push the partner away in a relationship.  (Unsplash)

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Contempt: Attacking the partner’s sense of self with insults can be very harmful. Onstead, we should share our own needs and emotions with them.  (Unsplash)

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Stonewalling: This is a toxic trait when one person withdraws to avoid conflict without providing any explanation. Instead, we can take a break and come back to address the conflict when we feel calm.  (Pixabay)