Enemies of Marital Intimacy

We want initmacy–that is why we get married. But it is dangerous. Get too close and there is a danger of either being hurt by rejection or by being smothered and controlled. So we protect ourselves either by clinging or by withdrawing.

These defensive reactions feed each other. The person who is afraid of rejection and clings too tightly will activate the fears of the partner regarding being controlled, who will then withdraw, which then makes the other person more afraid of rejection.

If you see evidence of this destructive dynamic in your own relationship, call Dr. Ross at (859) 278-3290 for an appointment.