Breaking up is hard, but how you do it might make moving on easier

Article excerpt

Breaking up is hard. Are there certain behaviors or communication techniques that could result in ex-partners feeling better post-break? Researchers from the University of Ottawa's Relationships and Couple Health (REACH) Lab have explored this topic and have found that when the initiator of a breakup engages in "autonomy-supportive" behaviors, which can include being honest, using non-controlling language, and taking time to acknowledge the other person during disagreements, ex-partners experienced positive emotions and subjective vitality. By showing a level of respect for the former relationship, these behaviors helped provide better closure.