Man Faces Wrath Of Redditors For Pushing His GF Off Because She Was Crying

Let the crying process take place; it's a necessary step in the healing of wounds. It can only get better with time, but crying it out helps relieve you in the moment.

People react differently when someone around them is crying. Some allow them space, while others will try to make physical contact with them—a hand on their arm or an embrace can be quite beneficial.

Seeing someone you care about cry is incredibly tough, especially for those of us who are people-pleasers and want everyone else to be happy all the time. As a result, when someone you care about cries, it affects you deeply.

You will try everything in your power to stop the cries because you want things to get better and for the pain to cease. Normally, your goal should be to console that person, reassure them that everything will be alright, or offer to help them resolve the issue.

The OP of today's story went through an incredibly traumatic event when he was a child. Due to this trauma, he cannot stand the sound or sight of people crying.

The OP has a girlfriend, Sally, who is fully aware of this, but the OP says that she never really seemed to take it seriously. Sally is not a very emotional person, so this fact never causes an issue until she comes over one day.

Sally started crying heavily and latched onto the OP for support, but things went south from there.

The OP writes

Reddit/ThrowRAunder_blind

Due to this trauma, the OP cannot stand the sound or sight of people crying

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Exploring Emotional Responses in Relationships

Dr. Mark Thompson, a relationship psychologist at the University of Washington, notes that emotional responses, such as anger or frustration, can lead to impulsive actions in relationships.

His research indicates that when individuals feel overwhelmed by a partner's emotional state, they may resort to distancing behaviors as a coping mechanism.

This reaction can unintentionally exacerbate conflicts rather than resolve them.

The OP went into the bathroom and sat on the floor in order to calm down

Reddit/ThrowRAunder_blind

The Reddit post received more than a thousand comments, and here are some of the most upvoted ones

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OP has offered the following explanation for why they think they might be the a-hole:

I fully understand why my GF feels unsupported by me. However, I truly don’t mean to be cold towards her when she’s emotional. She’s fully aware of my situation and background.

The OP needs more time in therapy

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Emotional support is part of a relationship, and the OP can't provide that

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Studies show that emotional regulation is crucial for healthy relationships.

According to research published in the Journal of Family Psychology, individuals who can effectively manage their emotional responses are better equipped to navigate relationship challenges.

Learning to identify triggers and develop coping strategies can lead to more constructive interactions.

The OP might need a vasectomy very quickly

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The OP can't fulfill the basic roles of emotional support

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The OP left this detail in the comments section

I have been in therapy for it over the years. I’m terrified that maybe this issue will cause our relationship to end. I wouldn’t blame my GF for leaving; I understand that she needs support. I just wish I could give that to her fully.

People crying is a normal part of life

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It's great that Sally isn't much of a crier

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Strategies for Healthy Emotional Communication

Healthy communication strategies are essential for preventing misunderstandings in relationships.

Experts recommend using reflective listening techniques, where individuals paraphrase their partner's feelings to ensure understanding.

This approach not only validates the partner's feelings but also encourages open dialogue that can prevent the escalation of conflicts.

It sucks that the OP has issues, but...

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Psychological Analysis

This situation illustrates the challenges many couples face when emotions run high.

From a psychological perspective, learning to manage emotional responses is vital for fostering intimacy and connection in relationships, rather than resorting to distancing behaviors that can harm the bond.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Emotional responses play a significant role in relationship dynamics.

Effective communication and emotional regulation are crucial for navigating conflicts and maintaining healthy connections.

As noted in psychological literature, addressing emotional issues proactively can prevent long-term relational distress.

Feeling helpless when trying to console someone who is crying is one of the most challenging aspects. Thankfully, most of the time, the person in tears isn't really seeking specific guidance or nuggets of wisdom.

All they need most from you is someone to listen to them and to show them understanding and empathy. The OP failed to do this, and Redditors declared him the AH in the story.

Couples therapy can also be a valuable resource for improving emotional communication.

Research indicates that couples who engage in therapy often develop healthier communication patterns, leading to stronger relationships.

Therapeutic interventions can provide tools to enhance emotional intelligence and facilitate more empathetic interactions.