Signs of Emotional Neglect in a Marriage
Relationships are challenging. Marriages go through ups and downs. In some cases, partners go against each other instead of supporting each other. This can be a sign of emotional neglect.
Emotional neglect occurs when someone’s attachment and/or emotional needs are disregarded. This pushes couples apart. It’s a form of a toxic relationship that can affect a person both mentally and physically.
However, it can be difficult for someone to know if they are experiencing emotional neglect. Without tangible evidence or written proof, it can be difficult to understand what is going on. Many people will stay in subpar marriages if there is no identifiable reason to leave.
Emotional neglect can affect other aspects of the relationship. It can cause one or both partners to withhold their true selves in various ways. Some people are incapable of emotional availability or they could be intentionally denying their partner an intimate space to express their emotional needs. This neglect starts to erode the connection between the couple.
Here are some signs of emotional neglect:
- You feel alone in your marriage.
- You would rather spend time alone instead of with your partner.
- Your partner shuts down when you want to talk.
- It’s not clear what your partner wants from you.
- You and your spouse never engage in social activities together.
- Your go-to person is a friend or other family member besides your spouse.
- You constantly suppress your feelings.
- You procrastinate on long-term decisions.
- You and your spouse lack physical intimacy.
- You can’t be yourself with your partner.
- You don’t trust your partner.
- You and your spouse lead parallel lives, despite living together.
- Your partner actively avoids things that bring you joy.
- Your partner refuses to communicate with you.
When you experience emotional neglect, you may wonder what is causing your partner to act this way in the first place. You should ask yourself a few questions. Was your relationship always like this, or did it deteriorate over time? Does your partner’s attitude change from day to day? Is there an event that caused this behavior?
If your spouse has been emotionally neglectful for a long time, the emotional neglect may be a larger issue than you realize. However, if you can figure out when the behavior shifted, it could be helpful in finding a path forward.
You need to be proactive. People don’t always recognize their own behavior, so you need to initiate the change. Take time to sit down and talk about your relationship. Setting aside time to have a discussion will create an environment that fosters talking and problem solving.
Seek Legal Help
We all have needs, and when your spouse doesn’t tend to them, it can cause a lot of stress, resentment, and heartache.
Your partner should be a huge source of support. They should be a good friend. If they’re not, you could be dealing with emotional neglect. Get the help you need from Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer Edward J. Jennings, P.A. We will do what we can to help you move forward from a bad marriage. Schedule a consultation today by filling out the online form or calling 954-764-4330.
Source:
brides.com/emotional-neglect-in-marriage-5195578
