Blame or Shame: The Nuances of Defensiveness

In this episode, Jenna and Aaron talk about the nuances of defensiveness when two people are communicating pain. The biggest struggle in learning to express emotion on a regular basis has been the defensiveness that inevitably arises as the result of our partner sharing pain that we caused. Aaron shares that playing the role of the victim typically results in defensiveness that is blaming. "If I feel sad, then that means you are bad/guilty/wrong/etc." Jenna shares that playing the role of the rescuer typically results in defensiveness that is internally focused shame. "If you feel sad, then that means I am bad/guilty/wrong/etc."They share the pathway to changing this unhelpful dynamic in bringing awareness to our styles of relating and then practicing through repetition, "I can connect to their sad and it doesn't mean I'm bad," or "I can be sad and it doesn't mean they are bad." Please rate, review & share the podcast!For more on what the Zints have to offer, check out ZintSquad.com where you can book one-on-one or couples coachings for emotional and relational health with Jenna and Aaron, join the waitlist for Jenna's life-changing Habit Mastery Course and check out Aaron's new book Numb to Known: The Surprising Path Away From Porn. Aaron also run's online small groups for men wanting to get connected, pursue growth and walk in sexual wholeness.Our Pre-Marriage E-course is like coaching from your couch. What’s inside?✅ 6 bite-sized video sessions (30 min each)✅ 50-page workbook to guide real conversations✅ Topics on communication, conflict, intimacy, money & moreDon’t just plan your wedding—prepare for your marriage!➡️ Buy the course  [cl Support the show-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------GRAB Jenna's Summer Course Here >>> Become a sponsor of our shows <<<This helps Jenna & Aaron to continue to be able to prioritize making content for you! We appreciate it so much.Simply click on this link & you'll support both of the Zints' podcasts!!patreon.com/TheHabitLabCheck out our website ZintSquad.com for coaching individual and couple's coaching appointments, Online Small Groups, Aaron's book, Jenna's Habit Lab Mastery Course and more. Please review, subscribe and share your favorite episodes with a friend!Links:Online Small Group - Porn Recovery CourseCouples Coaching, Habit Coaching, Porn Recovery Coaching, Emotional & Relational Health CoachingBook: Numb to Known: The Surprising Path Away From Porn