🕊️ Conflict & resolution · #128

What is the difference between giving healthy space and giving my spouse the silent treatment as a punishment?

Healthy space has the intention of repairing and has a time limit; silence as punishment is meant to make the other suffer and has no end. Healthy space sounds like: ‘I need to calm down for a bit; let's continue after Maghrib.’ The silent treatment, on the other hand, leaves your spouse confused, not knowing what they did wrong or when it will end. If you need time, say so and set a time when you will come back to talk. Do not use silence to punish or to force your spouse to give in. When the time is up, keep your promise to talk. Space handled honestly calms things; punishing silence destroys trust. See communication & emotions.

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This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

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