Why Trust is More Important Than Communication in Romantic Relationships
Don’t focus on the negative aspects of broken trust. Instead, work on rebuilding the foundations of your relationship.
When building a successful and lasting relationship, communication is often touted as the key ingredient. However, relationship expert Dr. Jane Smith says trust is more important than communication. After studying romantic relationships for over 15 years, Dr. Smith argues that trust is the foundation for couples to survive and thrive.
So, what is trust? Social scientists define trust as having confidence that one’s needs will be met, investing oneself and resources in another person, and taking the risk that the other person might disregard or misuse those investments. While many tend to focus on the last aspect of trust, which is broken trust, Dr. Smith notes that other vital elements must be considered.
One of the most fundamental aspects of trust is knowing that your partner will look out for you and have your best interests in mind. This sense of security is built on a foundation of attachment, which starts in childhood and carries over into adulthood.
Physical intimacy also requires trust, as it allows your partner to see and know you deeply. When trust is solid, you can feel confident that your partner will make choices and take actions that align with your mutual best interests.
Another critical aspect of trust is being “in it together.” In the early stages of a relationship, it can be challenging to determine whether your partner is truly invested and interested in the relationship. Trust is built by observing whether your partner is honest about their intentions and feelings, follows through on their commitments, and is trustworthy with others.
As the relationship progresses, trust is strengthened by investments of time, money, and a sense of shared purpose. When trust is established, couples can weather difficult times and conversations, knowing they are both committed to the relationship.
In conclusion, while communication is important, trust is the foundation for relationships to survive and thrive. Building trust takes time, effort, and a willingness to be vulnerable and invest in the other person. By focusing on the elements of trust outlined by Dr. Smith, couples can create a foundation of mutual trust and security that will serve as the foundation for a lasting and successful relationship.
