Why Communication Breaks Down in Couples (and How to Repair It)

 "You're Not Hearing Me!" — Fixing the Disconnect in Couple Communication

"You're Not Hearing Me!"  Fixing the Disconnect in Couple Communication

Most couples don’t struggle because they don’t love each other. They struggle because they don’t feel understood.

Common reasons communication breaks down:

  • Listening to respond, not to understand.

  • Making assumptions.

  • Letting unresolved resentment build up.

A powerful tool you can try is the “I feel, I need” script:

“I feel [emotion] when [situation], and I need [specific need].”

Example:

“I feel overwhelmed when I’m the only one handling bedtime. I need us to talk about sharing this routine.”

It sounds simple—but it shifts conversations from blame to collaboration.

🗣️ Try This Tonight: Use the script in a low-stakes conversation. It builds emotional muscle over time.

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