Defensiveness: defending ourselves when we feel vulnerable, often in the face of criticism. Defensiveness can take on many masks, including yelling, shutting down, deflection, putting another person down, diffusing responsibility, over-explaining, and much more. In any case, defensiveness blocks us from healthy conversation, effective resolution, and getting our needs met. So, what do we do if we notice that we feel defensive or often witness our partner feeling defensive? Let us give you some guidance! 

Join us as we breakdown defensiveness. Defensiveness is all too common in modern day relationships, including with romantic partners, friends, and family. Defensiveness protects us from experiencing hurt or feeling vulnerable or judged. While it can feel protective in the moment, defensiveness blocks you from the healthy relationships and effective communication you deserve! Join us as we explore each type of defensiveness, how to identify defensiveness in real time, and tools to overcome these toxic patterns in relationships. While disagreement is expected, defensiveness does not have to be! 

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In two weeks, we explore breaking up, including with romantic partners, friends, and family members. Later topics include: parenting, self-acceptance, domestic violence, premarital tips for relationship success, navigating milestones as a couple, how to have tough conversations, self-awareness in relationships, and so much more!

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Some resources related to this episode:

• What Is Defensiveness?
• How to Stop Being Defensive
• Why Some People Can Get So Defensive
• Defensiveness: An Enemy of Growth and Good Relationships