LibraryScenariosWhy you shut down during relationship conflict
Scenario

Why you shut down during relationship conflict

My wife says I shut down emotionally whenever we fight and she's right but I don't know how to stay present when conflict feels like I'm about to be destroyed.

Patan
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

The nervous system activates ancient protection patterns when intimacy triggers feel like existential threats.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Attachment in adult relationships?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.