1. Digital Communication
Sending texts, emails and Facebook messages can be faster than sitting down for a face-to-face conversation. But an Oxford University study found that couples who talk more through digital channels are likely to be less satisfied with their relationships. It could be because technology strips away the emotion that comes with communicating in person. “The further you get from expressing yourself fully, the more room there is for couples to miss each other,” says Jenev Caddell, PsyD, founder of My Best Relationship Psychological Services, PLLC. Be sure to balance the occasional “thinking of you” text with face time, especially for pressing concerns.
2. On-Screen Romances
Can’t get enough of fictional couples in movies and TV shows? That actually may distance you from your spouse. Research has shown that marrieds who believe strongly in TV depictions of romance are less committed to their current relationships. Despite rocky times for sitcom and romcom twosomes, viewers come to expect roses and adventures as everyday treats from their spouses, which just doesn’t happen. “They remove themselves from their own reality,” Dr. Caddell says. Using storylines as inspiration to try something new together can be wonderful, as long as you remember real relationships don’t operate exactly as scripted ones do.
3. Poor Sleep
Getting enough rest is a health must-and maybe a marriage must, too. A UC Berkeley study revealed that couples engage in more intense spats after a bad night’s sleep. “If you’re sleep-deprived, you have poor concentration and can’t think clearly,” says Leslie Becker-Phelps, PhD, psychologist and expert for WebMD’s Relationships and Coping Community. So it’s no wonder difficult discussions can turn ugly. If things get heated with your partner, own up to feeling more tired than usual. Then, readdress the issue after you’ve had some decent shut-eye.
Hidden Sources of Common Marriage Problems was originally published on wzakcleveland.com
