In relationships, we want to avoid conflict at all costs. The reality is that we need to have productive arguments sometimes. This is how we solve problems that arise in a partnership
While many couples may hope to avoid arguing altogether, this is not a realistic standard to set. Sometimes, a man can be confrontational. While this seems like it might be beneficial for relationships, it’s actually the opposite. We need to hash things out calmly to build a healthy partnership.
Disappointing Habits of Men Who Always Avoid Conflict:
1. They say yes when they mean no
If a man avoids conflict, it’s no wonder he can be overly agreeable. Instead of putting his foot down when something bothers him, he can let it happen. They don’t want to ruffle any feathers. They will say yes even if they want to say no. It could be making plans or letting something hurt their feelings go without standing up for themselves.
This can be frustrating. Avoiding conflict can be a chronic problem. They agree to save face without being honest.
2. They find ways out of difficult conversations
No one wants to have a difficult conversation, especially in a relationship. When something comes up that needs to be addressed, it can be overwhelming. Sometimes, we’ll do whatever we can to avoid the conversation. However, this only puts a temporary band-aid on the situation. It can be frustrating when a man will do anything to avoid a difficult but important conversation.
The truth is, we need to have conversations, no matter how hard we try to avoid them. If a man always avoids conflict, he may have a frustrating habit of walking out of difficult conversations.
3. They bottle their emotions
It can be difficult for men to share their emotions, even if they are not looking for excuses to avoid conflict. Male weakness is often seen as weakness. They may find it difficult to communicate their feelings. When it comes to sharing them, especially when they try to avoid conflict at all costs, it can be impossible. Instead of saying something, they can bottle up their emotions.
Although boys are born with the same emotional capacities as girls, they are often taught to keep their emotions bottled up. This can cause serious problems in their relationships and problem-solving abilities.
4. They become passive-aggressive
Passive-aggressive people often express negative emotions indirectly. Instead of being open about what’s bothering them, they make rude, hurtful comments. They may feel this practice prevents conflict, as they may try to pretend that there is no malice behind their words. Instead of dealing with conflict head-on, they may make excuses to avoid it altogether. They hope to get away with what they say without a fight.
“Passive-aggressive men are often (but not always) distinguished by the fact that they are expected to perform roles that are supposedly traditional for men (ie, strong, successful, independent, aggressive, in control), but are unable or unwilling to do so in the presence of powerful social systems (ie, parents, partners, controlling) in their lives,” says PBA Today, another science of pre-BA for PBA. “Prevented from fully expressing themselves and still needing to validate perceived male gender expectations, some men resort to passive-aggressiveness in an attempt to gain power and control.”
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This was the post Previously published at medium.com.
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