Distancing types and application briefly

Distancing is a temporary increase in the distance between yourself and another person, which helps to avoid the intensity of emotions, stop a possible dispute or conflict and at the same time maintain the relationship. Unlike ignoring, the purpose of which is often to punish the other person or prove one's rightness, distancing is aimed at protection, care for yourself and the interlocutor. It allows you to temporarily step back and reduce communication to restore internal balance. The ability to retreat with restraint, without exacerbating the conflict and without losing your own dignity, is an indicator of emotional maturity.

Distancing yourself during or after a conflict is a useful tactic to take a break to avoid escalation. Try to interrupt the conversation under a natural pretext, without deepening the disagreement. Such a breather can be beneficial for both parties: you will have time to calmly think about whether your partner really violated your expectations or whether you are overreacting. This is what the website https://intellect.icu says. Even if your partner is wrong and your emotions are justified, a pause will help you think about how to discuss the situation without threatening the relationship. During this time, the other person may notice your frustration and, perhaps, realize that they were wrong.

The purpose of distancing is self-protection, care for yourself and your partner, and the ability to calm down by creating a little distance and reducing the level of communication.

You can physically distance yourself, such as going outside, walking your dog, going for a run, or just getting some fresh air. If the situation becomes uncomfortable, you can honestly say that you have trouble speaking up when your voice is raised. Calmly explain that you are too upset or angry right now and need to be alone to calm down.

When physical distancing is not possible, use emotional distancing: switch to other activities, temporarily stopping the conflict conversation. For example, read, make tea, watch a movie or take a bath - this will help distract you and restore calm.

Distancing yourself can be a useful tactic for reestablishing violated boundaries when your needs and time are not being respected. For example, if someone is frequently late or cancels plans at the last minute, you can become less available to them. This will help them realize that their behavior is out of line.

In some cases, it may be helpful to move the conversation to a more formal or businesslike tone, if appropriate. Show restraint, for example, by not immediately responding to texts and calls, thereby establishing clearer boundaries.

If the interlocutor reacts with disdain to topics that are important and sensitive to you, it is better to avoid discussions that cause discomfort. Such distancing reflects a loss of trust, because it is already difficult to be vulnerable and open with this person.

When the principle of reciprocity in a relationship is violated, distancing can also help restore balance. It is not worth investing in a relationship more than you receive. It is better to focus on your own goals and interests than to continue to care about a person who responds to your attention with indifference.

For the most strict emotional distancing, there is the "Grey Rock Method". This method involves strict and distant behavior while maintaining exclusively formal communication. It is used in cases where a person is behaving toxically and the relationship is undesirable, but it is impossible to completely break it off.