Psychologists at the University of St Andrews have concluded that couples who take a five-second break during an argument with their partner can reduce the level of aggression and escalation of arguments.
In 81 couples who participated in this study, they found that short five-second breaks reduced negative emotions and aggression.
"Forcing couples to take a five-second break was just as effective as a 10- or 15-second break, showing that even shorter breaks can help defuse an argument," said Annah McCurry of the School of Psychology and Neuroscience".
As part of the research, couples were engaged in a game in which they had to react after an argument with their partner. The groups participated in 30 rounds of the game, with breaks implemented at various intervals, while the researchers analyzed their emotional responses.
Pedagogue McCurry and her colleagues found that couples tended to match each other's aggressiveness, even at high levels. But implementing a short break interrupted this retaliation pattern, leading to lower aggression.
However, the researchers pointed out that the five-second strategy aims to manage minor conflicts, preventing them from escalating into more serious situations.
"This approach does not apply to domestic violence scenarios. It's about managing the common arguments and discussions that almost all couples have in their day-to-day lives,” concluded McCurry.
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Source: Stylist
