Communication for couples is often blocked because of patterns in the relationship. Gender differences are often quite obvious when a couple is communicating. Speaking in generalizations, men usually want to fix a situation, so when they see something that is obvious, they point it out. Women simply want to be heard. One study highlights that women are more satisfied in their relationships when their partner simply makes the effort to be empathic. Men, make the effort to empathize.
Marlayne Whitlock, M.A., LAPC
mwhitlock@ GROWcounseling.com