In a relationship, when there is conflict, hurt feelings, or betrayal, it is essential to start building trust again.
This process can be challenging because people often react defensively when they are stressed. Therefore, some steps must be taken to facilitate communication, self-reflection, empathy, and understanding. One of these actions is active listening - hearing someone else's point of view without interrupting or judging them. It also includes asking open-ended questions that encourage deeper conversation. Another important aspect of relational repair under stress is acknowledgment - recognizing one's own role in the problem and taking responsibility for it.
Rebuilding trust requires time, patience, and consistency. People should show their partner that they can be counted on even during difficult times.
The second key element for relational repair under high stress is emotional regulation. When someone feels upset or angry, they may need support from their partner to manage those emotions. This could include offering comfort, validation, or encouragement. It might involve distraction techniques such as going for a walk together or doing an activity.
Taking breaks from each other can help calm down tension and provide space to think clearly about how to move forward. Emotional regulation is essential because uncontrolled emotions can lead to further harm and misunderstandings.
Establishing rules and boundaries is crucial for relational repair under high stress. These guidelines clarify what behaviors are acceptable and what are not, which helps prevent future conflicts.
Couples can set ground rules around communication (e.g., no yelling) or physical touch (e.g., handholding but not sexual contact). They should also discuss privacy concerns and respect each other's needs for alone time. Establishing clear expectations creates safety and predictability, which makes it easier for people to work through challenges together.
Relational repair under high stress involves several processes: active listening, acknowledgment, emotional regulation, and boundary-setting. By following these steps, partners can begin to rebuild trust after a breakdown in the relationship. This process takes time and effort but can ultimately strengthen a bond between two people.
What processes support relational repair, emotional regulation, and trust rebuilding under high stress?
Researchers suggest that there are several processes that may facilitate relational repair, emotional regulation, and trust rebuilding under high stress. One process is cognitive appraisal, where individuals engage in an internal dialogue about their feelings and thoughts in order to make sense of the situation and identify potential solutions (Harris & Thoresen, 2017).