A recent study published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology suggests that individuals tend to remain committed to their relationships even after encountering potential dealbreakers, viewing them more as “dealbenders.” These dealbenders serve as warning signs, prompting individuals to pause and assess the situation before deciding whether to continue the relationship or not. The intention to make a relationship last can influence how individuals perceive dealbenders, with people being more critical of potential partners with dealbreakers in a long-term context compared to a short-term one. Emotional investment in a long-term relationship tends to be deeper, leading individuals to undertake a harsher screening process to avoid emotional turmoil.
When dealbenders turn into dealbreakers, it is often due to persistent, unresolved patterns in the relationship. Individuals may attempt to work around these dealbenders by compromising and addressing the problematic behavior, but if their partner shows a reluctance to change, these issues can become insurmountable. Persistent conflicts in a relationship can impact its longevity and satisfaction, leading individuals to fall back on their attachment styles to cope with the situation. Unaddressed issues can push boundaries past the breaking point, causing the relationship to deteriorate.
Relationships with multiple dealbenders can jeopardize one’s well-being, as emotionally unsatisfying relationships can exacerbate anxiety, depression, and lower self-esteem. Dealing with dealbenders can hinder emotional stability and diminish the love between partners, causing intense emotional pain and feelings of sadness. It is essential to recognize when dealbenders have escalated past the tipping point and are negatively impacting one’s emotional well-being, signaling that it may be time to address the issues in the relationship.
Understanding how dealbenders evolve into dealbreakers is crucial for protecting one’s well-being and ensuring a healthy relationship. While compromise is essential in any relationship, it is equally important to stand firm on non-negotiables that are vital to one’s happiness and well-being. If a relationship is riddled with dealbending behavior, it may be beneficial to take the Relationship Satisfaction Scale to determine if professional help is needed. By recognizing the signs of dealbreakers and addressing them early on, individuals can work towards maintaining a healthy and fulfilling relationship.
