You sense something is wrong. There is a tension in the air you can’t ignore. So, you try to talk to your partner about it. Instead of engaging, he shuts down, changes the subject, or simply leaves the room. This frustrating pattern is known as stonewalling or avoidance.
For many women, this behavior is baffling and deeply hurtful because it feels like a refusal to participate in the relationship. While not exclusive to men, this conflict avoidance is a common complaint. So, why do men think avoidance solves relationship issues? Let’s unpack the psychology behind this common dynamic.
