Partners who have been affected by traumatic events may respond to them differently than others. Some individuals may experience physical reactions such as heart palpitations, trembling, sweating, nausea, muscle tension, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. Others may develop anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse issues, or behavioral problems. These responses are known as "withdrawal behaviors." Partners might misinterpret these withdrawal behaviors and assume that their partner is intentionally distancing themselves from them. They might perceive their partner's actions as an attack on their relationship or personality.
This assumption can lead to misunderstandings that damage the partnership.
If one partner has experienced sexual assault and struggles with intimacy afterward, they may become emotionally distant or avoid physical touch. Their partner may interpret this behavior as rejection and feel hurt. The partner's feelings of pain and betrayal can exacerbate their own trauma symptoms. To avoid further conflict, the survivor may keep quiet about their trauma or minimize its impact. This can create a cycle where both parties struggle to communicate effectively and support each other.
Another example is when someone experiences financial hardship due to job loss or a natural disaster. They may become preoccupied with money worries and have trouble engaging in social activities or prioritizing their partner's needs. Their partner may view this behavior as selfishness or a lack of commitment. Misunderstandings can arise when partners fail to recognize the underlying causes of withdrawal behaviors. Acknowledging traumatic experiences can help partners understand each other better and work together to manage challenges.
To prevent misunderstandings, partners should be open and honest about their thoughts and emotions regarding the traumatic event. They should also ask questions, share information, and listen actively without judging or blaming. Couples counseling can provide guidance and support for addressing miscommunication and healing from trauma-driven withdrawal behaviors. By recognizing these behaviors and working through them together, couples can build stronger bonds and improve communication skills.
How do partners interpret trauma-driven withdrawal behaviors, and what misunderstandings commonly arise from these interpretations?
According to researchers, partners may misinterpret withdrawal behavior as rejection, which can lead to feelings of abandonment and betrayal. This can cause further strain on the relationship and even lead to more severe issues such as anxiety and depression. It is important for partners to understand that the withdrawal behavior may not be intentional and to communicate openly about their concerns instead of assuming the worst.