A study by the University of Reading explored the effects of silence in relationships. Researchers discovered that the nature of silence significantly impacts couple dynamics. Couples characterized their silences; those who felt at ease reported positive emotions and satisfaction within their relationships, while those who experienced silence as anxious or hostile felt negative emotions. The research highlights the dual nature of silence—constructive in nurturing intimacy or destructive amidst conflict. Overall, the study emphasizes that silence, when comfortable, contributes positively to relational fulfillment.
'Silence shared between partners is a rich and understudied feature of romantic relationships. It may...reflect intimacy or the lack of intimacy shared between partners.'
'During these comfortable silences, positive feelings were 'low-arousal', meaning they were relaxed and peaceful rather than happy or excited, the team found.'
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