As a Marriage Therapist, I know that Communication challenges with couples often can be viewed from the perspective of gender differences.
While we all know that men have a higher need to want to respond in a way that fixes the problem women on the other hand want first to be validated, heard, and understood.
BE STRATEGIC
The goal is more important than the strategy. Watch this 2 min. video clip. It’s not about the nail…..
If we take this into account then its best to allow the female member to first share her concerns, pain, stress then ask if she’d like some suggestions on how to deal with whatever the challenge is. If the answer is yes, proceed, if its no, I just want you to listen, proceed.
Honor the request even if it makes no sense.
Deb Owens, LPC is a Marriage Therapist & Couples Counselor in Chestnut Hill and Montgomery County, PA