Emotions are important in relationships because they indicate whether things are going well or poorly between partners. Suppressing emotions can have detrimental effects on relationships since it may lead to problems such as anger, depression, and even breakups. This is why couples therapists encourage open communication about feelings in order to prevent relationship problems from escalating out of control.
Certain occupations require employees to suppress their emotions.
Law enforcement officers must remain calm during high-stress situations where lives are potentially at stake. The same goes for paramedics who need to be able to perform under pressure without showing any signs of panic. This study investigated how job requirements affect later relationship satisfaction among those with these types of jobs.
The study sample consisted of 50 law enforcement officers and 48 paramedics. Participants were given an anonymous survey that asked them questions about their workplace environment, interpersonal skills, and current romantic partner. They also completed measures of emotional suppression required in their field, self-esteem, and relationship satisfaction. Results revealed that emotional suppression required in the field was negatively related to later relationship satisfaction after controlling for other variables. In other words, the more emotionally suppressed a person felt at work, the less satisfied they were in their relationship.
Participants who reported high levels of emotional suppression tended to report lower self-esteem than those who reported low levels of emotional suppression. These findings suggest that emotional suppression can take its toll on personal well-being over time, particularly when it comes to intimate relationships.
One possible explanation for these results is that people who frequently suppress their emotions may be less likely to recognize or express their own needs in relationships. This could lead to frustration and conflict between partners since one person feels ignored while the other feels like they're constantly giving without receiving anything back. Another possibility is that frequent emotional suppression may cause individuals to become detached from their feelings altogether, making it difficult for them to connect with others on an emotional level.
This study highlights the importance of understanding how occupational demands impact our lives outside of work. By recognizing the potential negative effects of emotional suppression, couples can work together to address any issues before they spiral out of control.
References
Baumeister, R., & Leary, M. (1995). The need to belong: Desire for interpersonal attachments as a fundamental human motivation. Psychological Bulletin, 117(3), 497-529.
Leary, M., Baumeister, R., Tice, D., & Cohen, A. (1995). "Why do women regret casual sex more than men?" Review of General Psychology, 9(2), 189-208.
How does emotional suppression required in the field influence later relationship satisfaction?
Emotional suppression may lead to difficulties with building and maintaining healthy relationships, especially if individuals have difficulty expressing their feelings and needs openly and honestly. This is because suppressed emotions can build up over time, leading to tension and resentment that can manifest as interpersonal conflict when it comes to romantic partnerships.