How to Handle a Partner Who Doesn’t Take You Seriously
You’ve been there before. You’re pouring your heart out, talking about something important, and your partner brushes it off like it’s nothing. Maybe they roll their eyes, or worse, they laugh it off. It stings, right? It’s frustrating when someone you love doesn’t seem to take you seriously.
1. Communicate Clearly (But Not in the Heat of the Moment)
Let’s be real. Yelling or arguing when you’re upset isn’t going to get your point across. Instead, find a calm moment to talk. Be direct but kind. You might say, “When you make jokes about what I’m saying, it makes me feel like you don’t take me seriously.” Keep it simple, keep it honest.
2. Set Boundaries
Boundaries aren’t just a buzzword; they’re essential. If your partner keeps dismissing your feelings, let them know it’s not okay. You could try, “I need you to listen when I talk about things that matter to me. If that doesn’t happen, I’ll need to take some space until we can have a respectful conversation.”
3. Lead by Example
Model the behavior you want to see. When your partner talks, give them your full attention. Show them what it looks like to take someone seriously. Sometimes, people need to see it to understand what they’re missing.
4. Know When to Step Back
This one’s tough, but important. If you’ve tried everything and your partner still isn’t showing you the respect you deserve, it might be time to reevaluate the relationship. You deserve to be with someone who values and respects you.
5. Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, these issues run deeper. It might help to talk to a therapist together. A professional can provide an objective perspective and teach you both better communication skills.
Scientific Tips
- Active Listening: Research shows that active listening — where you fully concentrate, understand, respond, and then remember what the other person is saying — improves relationships. Encourage your partner to practice this skill.
- Use “I” Statements: Studies indicate that framing your feelings with “I” statements (e.g., “I feel unimportant when you…”) rather than accusatory “You” statements can reduce defensiveness and increase understanding.
- Non-Verbal Communication: According to psychology research, much of our communication is non-verbal. Pay attention to your body language and tone. Make sure they’re conveying respect and openness.
- Empathy Training: Empathy isn’t just a natural trait; it can be developed. Encourage your partner to work on understanding your perspective. There are even exercises and apps designed to boost empathy.
A Personal Note
I’ve seen it in my practice too many times — relationships falter when respect wanes. If you’re feeling dismissed, it’s crucial to address it sooner rather than later. Remember, you deserve to be heard and respected. If your partner truly cares, they’ll be willing to work on this with you.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, psychiatrist, or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.
Written by Dr. Rameez Shaikh
Psychiatrist, passionate about mental health awareness and helping individuals build stronger, healthier relationships.
