wondering.

[hearne]

On communication. Is it ever appropriate to *expect* a partner, lover or anyone else for that matter, to read and be responsible for responding correctly to non-standard communication? (the "be responsible for appropriate re-action" is the key phrase

Comments

[tselmende]

I agree with Theblueleader. No one can be expected to read someone's mind. In the end, we are responsible for our own happiness, and in order to help ensure that, we need to communicate our needs clearly to help those we love understand those needs.

[mermadn]

I'm so crazy that it would probably scare me if anyone understood my thoughts 100% without being told!

[keastree]

I generally say 'yes', but I cannot say that it would be reflected in my own relationship, despite maximal efforts to express things clearly and frequently enough that needless guessing games are eliminated. It seems the nature of human beings to infer the damnedest things from apparently clearly stated language--or from silences of no particular pregnancy.

That said, I think there is a point in an intimate relationship where it is fair to expect a partner to know where the buttons are, which ones to never mash, and which cycles to gently guide you away from. Sometimes it even happens that way, which would be a sign of more-than-decent communication and a commitment to be as sensitive to the needs of the other as possible.

Young relationships? Casual? Acquaintance? Not sure if 'fair' applies.