Dr. Eugene Beresin, a, observed relationships “become stronger, more enduring, and closer through the resolution of a conflict,” in part because resolving conflict “requires building interpersonal skills that are essential for loving and effective relationships,” such as listening and tolerating differences.
Communication and empathy chops are improved, communications researcher and therapist Jennifer A. Sampa explained, because “research suggests that the process of conflict and arguing facilitates talk and awareness of another’s perspective.”If that isn’t self-serving enough, there’s this: Research published in the The Journals of Gerontology Series B found that study participants who
reported that their stress diminished and even disappeared afterward. They experienced fewer negative emotions that day and the next compared with others, and their positive emotions remained stable for longer.with those who “didn’t feel good to be around” reconnected with these people. With time and introspection, she discovered that her impulsive act was selfish and had backfired.
Sometimes messy relationships are the perfect way to learn about other people in our lives — and ourselves.Andrew Reiner is the author of “Better Boys, Better Men: The New Masculinity That Creates Greater Courage and Emotional Resiliency.” He teaches at Towson University and can be found on instagram @andrew.reiner.author. He really needs to get on Twitter.
THINK This is pretty embarrassing.