The Secure Love Podcast with Julie Menanno

Moving Towards a Positive Cycle & Understanding the Avoidant Partner

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Aug 6, 2024

A couple shares a pivotal moment during a family gathering where they decide to reset their conflict. They delve into the complexities of avoidant attachment styles. Drew reflects on his childhood struggles with emotional regulation, leading to a newfound self-awareness. This discussion highlights the challenges of communication in parenting and the importance of vulnerability. By acknowledging their emotions, they pave the way for healthier interactions and deeper emotional connections.

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Intro

00:00 • 3min

Navigating Attachment Styles and Positive Relationship Dynamics

02:32 • 5min

Navigating Conflict with Empathy

07:45 • 13min

Navigating Communication in Parenting

20:41 • 8min

Navigating Emotional Connectivity

28:42 • 24min

Navigating Emotional Awareness in Relationships

52:21 • 3min

In this week's episode of the Secure Love Podcast, Melissa and Drew recount a transformative moment from their Fourth of July weekend. Picture this: amidst the typical holiday stress, a disagreement escalates in front of their kids. Instead of spiraling further, they pause and ask each other, "Hey, can we try this again?" It's a simple question, but one that marks a significant milestone in their journey.

This episode not only celebrates Melissa and Drew's progress but also takes a deeper dive into Drew's role as the avoidant partner. Why focus on Drew? Because avoidant partners often struggle longer with processing and communicating their emotions. Julie probes with questions like, "How long have you walked around trying to get everything right?" and "How are you supposed to help Melissa with her anxiety when you’ve never had help with yours?"

Drew shares a powerful realization: "I’ve never had help in that arena…" This acknowledgment opens up discussions about the challenges of growing up with parents who, despite their best efforts, weren't always emotionally available. Drew traces the roots of his anxiety back to having to regulate his emotions alone from a young age.

Julie guides Drew through understanding the pain beneath the pressure he feels, introducing him to a new kind of difficulty: touching the pain underneath all that pressure. For Melissa, understanding the reasons behind Drew’s avoidant nature brings a huge sense of relief and a pathway to true co-regulation.

As they navigate these revelations, how does it change their dynamics? Could understanding and addressing these deep-seated issues be the key to breaking their negative cycles for good? How do you handle the uncovering of deep-seated personal struggles in your relationships?

Follow Julie Menanno on social media @thesecurerelationship.
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