In friendships, direct communication is key, but when issues are discussed with others instead of face-to-face, misunderstandings can quickly escalate. This indirect approach can distort the original message and strain even the strongest bonds, leaving friends to navigate the fallout of words that were never directly exchanged.
Miscommunications are a common yet often overlooked source of tension in friendships. When messages are unclear or go through other people, misunderstandings can escalate, leading to conflicts and strained friendships. Through interviews with people who have experienced these challenges firsthand, this article explores the nuances of how miscommunications can impact friendships and offers insights into preventing such issues from damaging important bonds.
Freshman Tanya Hernandez shares her experience of having a friend two years ago who spoke negatively about her to other people.
“I had this friend for like a year or two, ” Hernandez said. “She was telling my friends stuff behind my back which made me upset.”
When asked whether she chose to address the issue directly with her friend or let it go, Hernandez expressed not wanting to create a bigger situation out of it.
“I left it alone. I didn’t want to start more conflict, I wanted to be more mature [about the situation],” Hernandez said.
She felt that one of the root causes for them to further drift apart was not being able to communicate clearly.
“I think it was just that we weren’t able to like text. We kind of drifted apart, so like not being able to communicate,” Hernandez said.
This highlights the importance of being able to communicate about problems is key to staying friends and steering clear of unwanted problems.
Freshman Samantha Martinez shares her experience with a friendship that struggled due to poor communication. Martinez recalls a friendship from years ago that was formed with an ulterior motive, which ultimately impacted their bond. Her friend’s actions and behavior would soon make Martinez feel uncomfortable and angry.
“I had this one friend that was like only my friend to try to get closer to a guy,” Martinez said. “She was really rude to me and she made me feel uncomfortable. She also made me upset and cautious around her.”
As a result, Martinez decided to leave her alone and let things take their course.
”I just left her alone, I ignored her and she ended up being friendless afterwards, I think that everyone got the hint of who she was actually like so nobody talked to her at all,” Martinez said
Clear and direct communication is essential for maintaining healthy friendships. Hernandez’s and Martinez’s experiences illustrate and serve as examples as to how indirect communication and unresolved misunderstandings can easily lead to conflicts and strained relationships. By choosing to address issues face-to-face and clarifying intentions, friends can prevent unnecessary tensions and strengthen their bonds. Open dialogue and honesty are key to avoiding miscommunications and ensuring your relationships remain strong and supportive.
#CommunicationMatters #HealthyRelationships #ListenandLearn
