Mutual Inhabitants
by Joel Block, Ph.D.
Often, what couples term “boredom” is a cover-up for long-standing but hidden resentment. The operative word here is “hidden.” Nearly every couple is going to experience flare-ups in response to an immediate situation, the occasional squabble, the slamming-door exit or the exasperated burst of tears.
Anger can help but…
Squabbles and even a fiery outburst can be helpful if it brings the real issues out in the open for resolution. In other words, occasional arguments don’t lead to long-term relationship turn-offs. However, the kind of anger that undermines a couple’s relationship is alive and well when for one reason or another it is not worked out.
