This is just a reality of life and nothing to be concerned about.
In some cases, negativity can ruin a relationshipbut it doesn’t always need to.
With some honest communication and genuine effort, relationship dynamics can shift from negative to positive.
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At a Glance
There are a number of reasons why someone might be negative in a relationship.
Fortunately, there are ways to help or cope with a negative spouse.
However, keep in mind that someone’s negativity doesn’t have to define them.
Recap
A negative spouse may be moody, critical, and dismissive.
Negativity Bias
The human brain has a natural tendency to prefer negative information.
Negative events tend to garner more attention and have a greater impact on the brain than positive ones.
In relationships, thisnegativity biasoften causes people to always expect the worst or always be on the defensive.
It can also contribute to conflict and resentment.
Stress
Excessive stress can make it difficult for people to stay positive.
Personality
Some people tend to come by a tendency toward negativity naturally.
It might simply be part of theirinborn temperament or personality.
Mental Health Conditions
In some cases, mental health conditions can cause constant negative thinking.
Disorders linked with negative thinking includedepression,anxiety, andobsessive-compulsive disorder(OCD).
There may be a number of reasons why your spouse is negative, including mental health conditions.
If this ratio is unbalanced, it can take a serious toll on a relationship.
Negativity in marriage:
Being around a negative person can cause you to feel depressed or sad as well.
(The good news is: Positivity is contagious, too.)
What does that mean for your relationship?
Can your marriage survive a high degree of negativity?
Can someone overcome a negative outlook on life?
Change is possible, but it requires effort.
However, you have to want to make this change, and no one can do it for you.
If you’ve tried these strategies and are still struggling, consider talking to a mental health professional.
However, you might help your partner be more positive.
Practice Empathy and Kindness
Set an example for your partner by focusing on being a positive force.
Model theempathyand kindness that you hope for them to emulate.
Over time, your partner may find it increasingly difficult to respond to your positivity with a negative attitude.
Instead of letting their mood affect yours, focus on forgiving their mistakes and moving on.
Set Boundaries
Boundaries establish what you will and will not tolerate in a relationship.
Once you make these boundaries clear, be willing to enforce them if they are violated.
Care for Yourself
Don’t allow your partner’s negativity to interfere with your health and well-being.
Ensure that you are treating yourself kindly, including getting enough rest and care.
Cultivate Positive Relationships
It is important to seek social support outside of your relationship.
This is where boundaries are very important.
It’s not fair for your partner to project their anger or toxic behavior onto you.
Some relationships can be mended with time and effort, but this is not always the case.
Some couples experience what is commonly referred to as a “silent divorce.”
Deciding whether or not it is too late to keep your marriage is a difficult call to make.
It can be a challenge at times and no relationship or marriage is perfect.
Do your best to counteract any negativity you experience.
You may be surprised at the effect it has on both of you over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Avoid being confrontational, which may make your partner defensive and even more negative.
Be empathetic and have a go at use feeling statements when talking about your concerns.
If your partner is expressing negativity about your children, set clear boundaries about what is appropriate.
Do not have these conversations in front of your kids.
Encourage your partner to talk to a mental health professional about these feelings, or consider couples therapy.
Accept that your partner is going to have their own feelings and that their negativity is not your responsibility.
Be empathetic and practice kindness, but work on supporting your own well-being.
Surround yourself with people who are positive and do things that bring you joy and contentment.
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