During our private retreats almost every couple complains about an overly critical partner and shares how suffocated they feel having their every move being under surveillance. Both men and women suffer the stresses of intense scrutiny from their partner.
If unaddressed, living with a highly critical and/or judgmental person can be one of the most detrimental relationship dynamics. Unhealthy criticism undercuts the basic cornerstones of goodrelationships: the feelings of safety and approval. Its corrosive effect often makes vitality or spontaneity impossible.