Is stonewalling abuse?

Stonewalling — refusing to communicate or giving the silent treatment — exists on a spectrum. When used consistently as a tool to punish or control, it constitutes emotional abuse. When it reflects overwhelm and a genuine need to regulate, it can be addressed with communication skills. Dr. John Gottman identifies it as one of the Four Horsemen that predicts relationship breakdown. Lovon helps you explore your relationship dynamics and understand what you are experiencing.