Addressing your own protest behavior
Relationships are not always easy and can be filled with complications. When disagreements arise, the way each person reacts is crucial. Sometimes when individuals feel unheard, they may resort to protest behaviors. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you just couldn't stop reaching out to someone, demanding attention, or even starting arguments? If so, you might have unknowingly engaged in protest behaviors related to your attachment style. These behaviors often arise when we experience anxiety in a relationship, and they're a way of trying to maintain the connection with our partner. However, protest behaviors can sometimes come off as clingy or even manipulative, so it's important to recognize them and address them healthily. Understanding the roots of your protest behaviors can help you cultivate a more fulfilling love life, whether navigating a new romance or a long-term relationship.
Navigating the Holidays When Family Relationships are Complicated
The holidays are coming up, and for some people that is wonderful news. The warm twinkle of lights around town, the vacation days, cultural or religious traditions and, time with family.
But for a lot of people the holidays can be daunting. During the time of year that prioritizes family, it can feel incredibly isolating when visiting relatives doesn’t feel safe or welcoming. Or it may be off the table entirely for one reason or another.
Whether you’re estranged from your family completely or have strained relations that make the holidays difficult, here are some ways to cope through the holidays: