Overcoming defensiveness: 7 tips for better communication in your relationships

By , New Delhi
Published on Mar 15, 2024 06:00 am IST

Defensiveness can hinder healthy communication in relationships. Here are seven practical tips to break down defensive barriers and improve dialogue.

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“Dealing with defensiveness can be tough, but by understanding each other better and communicating gently, you can break down those barriers and grow closer as a couple. Remember, it's all about patience, understanding, and a willingness to work together to build a stronger relationship,” says Amanda Twiggs, Marriage Coach and Intimacy Expert in her recent Instagram post. (Pexels ) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Mar 15, 2024 06:00 am IST

“Dealing with defensiveness can be tough, but by understanding each other better and communicating gently, you can break down those barriers and grow closer as a couple. Remember, it's all about patience, understanding, and a willingness to work together to build a stronger relationship,” says Amanda Twiggs, Marriage Coach and Intimacy Expert in her recent Instagram post. (Pexels )

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Understand where it's coming from: Defensiveness is a natural response when we feel threatened or criticised.(Pexels) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Mar 15, 2024 06:00 am IST

Understand where it's coming from: Defensiveness is a natural response when we feel threatened or criticised.(Pexels)

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Recognise the frustration: Getting defensive can make both of you feel frustrated and distant.(Pexels) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Mar 15, 2024 06:00 am IST

Recognise the frustration: Getting defensive can make both of you feel frustrated and distant.(Pexels)

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Communicate gently: When you bring up concerns, do it in a way that's caring and not accusatory.(Pexels) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Mar 15, 2024 06:00 am IST

Communicate gently: When you bring up concerns, do it in a way that's caring and not accusatory.(Pexels)

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Create a safe space: Make sure you both feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings without judgment.(Pexels) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Mar 15, 2024 06:00 am IST

Create a safe space: Make sure you both feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings without judgment.(Pexels)

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Think about the big picture: Consider what you both want out of the conversation and the relationship.(Pexels) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Mar 15, 2024 06:00 am IST

Think about the big picture: Consider what you both want out of the conversation and the relationship.(Pexels)

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Be fair: Be willing to make changes yourself and expect the same from your partner.(Pexels ) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Mar 15, 2024 06:00 am IST

Be fair: Be willing to make changes yourself and expect the same from your partner.(Pexels )

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Stay patient and understanding: Overcoming defensiveness takes time and effort, so be kind to each other as you work through it.(Pexels ) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Mar 15, 2024 06:00 am IST

Stay patient and understanding: Overcoming defensiveness takes time and effort, so be kind to each other as you work through it.(Pexels )

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    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Akanksha Agnihotri

    Akanksha Agnihotri is a lifestyle journalist with over 3 years of experience. She is a psychology graduate and holds a postgraduate diploma in Radio and Television Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Delhi, where she graduated as a gold medalist. Originally from Bhopal, the beautiful capital of Madhya Pradesh, she draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural heritage and layered storytelling traditions that subtly shape her narrative voice. She writes extensively about fashion, beauty, health, relationships, culture, and food, exploring everything from trending styles and runway moments to wellness routines and mindful living. Passionate about meaningful and candid conversations, she enjoys interviewing celebrities, doctors, designers, and film personalities, diving into discussions on fitness, beauty, mental health, and everything fun in between. With a keen eye for trends and a thoughtful understanding of human behaviour, she brings depth, sensitivity, and authenticity to her stories, ensuring they resonate with a wide and diverse audience. When she’s not working, you’ll usually find her lost in a book, planning her next mountain trek, or mapping out spontaneous travel escapes. She loves discovering new authors, revisiting old favourites, and spending quiet afternoons in museums soaking in art, history, and culture. An avid bird-watching enthusiast, she finds joy in early morning walks, spotting rare birds, and reconnecting with nature. Whether sipping coffee while journaling her thoughts or exploring hidden corners of a new city, she constantly seeks inspiration in everyday moments that often turn into compelling story ideas.

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