John Gottman is a researcher who for over 50 years has observed and coded couple interactions. Much of this has been done in his “love lab,” which is an apartment at the University of Washington where couples live while being observed, measured, and monitored.
After decades of poring through data and squinting at statistics, what has he found? That most of the crucial accomplishments in a successful relationship “have to do with establishing trust.” Trust is at the heart of a healthy partnership, and nurturing it and repairing it when it gets damaged is a must.
Trust is the glue of life. It's the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It's the foundational principle that holds all relationships. Trust is one of the most sought-after traits in a partner, and most relationships will not progress without it.
Trust and Security
The need for safe connection is wired into our biology. Babies’ lives literally depend on having a responsive caregiver that will meet their needs, and as people grow up, they still want someone to be there, respond to their signals, and show them they are important. This is why people react in dramatic ways when their lover lets them dowm. A betrayal feels like a blade, cutting ties of security. People panic when they feel abandoned, and this is particularly true for those who have been badly hurt.
For many, growing trust takes time and responsiveness. When emotions go off like alarms, it is time to reassure, not back away. If your partner becomes agitated, resist the temptation to flee or fight back. Instead, try to stay calm and empathetic. This will help solidify trust.
A secure relationship has less stress than one without trust. As Gottman says, partners who trust each other can operate with incomplete information.
Spouses who have each other’s back are as content as well-loved children, secure in the cocoon of a relationship that isn’t going to disappear or cause deliberate pain. There may be fights or hurt feelings, but energy is not drained by worry and suspicion. There is an old saying that it is better to be trusted than to be loved. Even when people don’t feel in love, they need to know their relationship is safe and honest.
Comments