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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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)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/03/14/550x309/barbieee_1710437783000_1710437807146.jpg)
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)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/03/14/550x309/pexels-vera-arsic-984950_1710437862998_1710437889303.jpg)
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)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/03/14/550x309/pexels-vera-arsic-984953_1710437958603_1710437992548.jpg)
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)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/03/14/550x309/pexels-vitaly-gariev-20459081_1710438153846_1710438182265.jpg)
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)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/03/14/550x309/pexels-sagar-kumar-5610919_1710438944409_1710438975486.jpg)
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 )](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/03/14/550x309/pexels-timur-weber-8560383_1710439372986_1710439402349.jpg)
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 )](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/03/14/550x309/pexels-diva-plavalaguna-5710385_1710439659851_1710439688281.jpg)
View Photos in a new improved layout
Published on Mar 15, 2024 06:00 AM IST