The desire to resolve conflict in a relationship is healthy. Repairing a rupture maintains trust and allows a couple to feel good moving forward.
However, when one partner shuts down or withdraws, he or she is defending against intense emotion. Withdrawing is a defense mechanism, and although defense mechanisms are necessary, universal, and human, when ignited, they render a person less capable of resolving conflict.
Four suggestions may assist a person help a partner who withdraws. First, wait for the defense mechanisms to soften. Do not allow too much time to pass before broaching the subject again, however, because it may be tempting to sweep the issue under the rug.
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