Defensive Behavior: How to Overcome this Pattern in Your Relationship: Episode 169

Defensiveness is a learned behavior to compensate for something going on beneath the surface.  A few common sources of defensiveness in relationship: A lack of feeling emotionally safe because they often feel invalidated Taking something personally (and making it mean something different than what was said) Fear of being judged, not loved, abandoned, or punished An attachment to a certain perspective about themselves or the situation Here’s the thing...if you and your partner perpetually react with defensiveness, you will leave conversations unresolved, build up more and more tension, and/or get to the point where you feel like you’re walking on eggshells. So today’s podcast episode goes deeper into understanding why defensiveness shows up in your relationship PLUS how to break this pattern, so you communicate openly and constructively.   Resources For Your Relationship: Book a private Couples Session with us. The first one is discounted so you can get a sense that our style WORKS! Read testimonials, details, and schedule one here. Read our newest book, The Argument Hangover. Get $200 of bonus resources, including a course and workbook. HERE   About Us: We’re The Freemans, your go-to couple for authentic and actionable relationship advice. Send us your relationship questions for the show with a DM on Instagram. As you listen to the episode, tag us on an IG story and let us know what you loved.   Please leave a Review of the Show if you have not, it helps us reach even more couples! 

Om Podcasten

Stay on the same team, no matter the challenge you face! Jocelyn and Aaron Freeman, known as The Freemans, are the husband-and-wife duo behind viral marriage content seen by 20M+ couples every month. Both hold Master’s degrees in Psychology, are authors, coaches, and parents... but what makes them stand out is how real and relatable their advice is. Most couples say: “Are they watching us?!” This show gives couples the practical tools, real talk, and honest coaching that most relationships are missing. Whether you're in a tough season or just want to stay connected through the chaos of life, you'll walk away from every episode with something you can actually use. If you're ready to improve communication, resolve conflict faster, and feel emotionally connected again, subscribe now. You’ll want to binge past episodes and never miss what’s next.