A recent study conducted by psychologists at the University of St Andrews suggests that taking a five-second break during an argument can act as a firebreak to prevent conflicts from escalating. The study, published in the Nature journal, involved experiments with 81 couples playing a competitive game where they could blast an unpleasant noise at each other. Enforcing short breaks, even as brief as five seconds, was found to be just as effective as longer breaks in reducing aggression and defusing disagreements.
Lead researcher Annah McCurry, a PhD candidate at the university’s school of psychology and neuroscience, noted that the brief pause in arguments is a simple, free, and effective strategy to manage negative emotions during conflicts. The study used advanced AI and machine learning to analyze emotional responses during the experiments, showing that short breaks disrupted patterns of retaliation and lowered overall aggression levels.
However, the researchers emphasize that this strategy is intended for managing everyday arguments and preventing their escalation, rather than addressing more serious issues such as domestic violence. McCurry stated that the five-second break approach is not a substitute for professional counseling but can be easily integrated into daily interactions to help couples maintain healthier communication and prevent minor disputes from turning into major fights. This study provides practical insights for couples looking to improve their conflict resolution skills and maintain harmonious relationships.
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