Share this Story: Couples who blamed COVID pandemic for relationship troubles much happier: studyCouples who blamed COVID pandemic for relationship troubles much happier: study The unique circumstances created by COVID may have provided an 'opportune scapegoat' for couples' problems, a new study suggests Photo by Peter J Thompson / National PostArticle content Stress can corrode relationships, so one might expect a mammoth stressor like a global pandemic could seriously unhinge romantic couples. Instead, the unique circumstances created by COVID may have provided an “opportune scapegoat” for their problems, a new study suggests. Try refreshing your browser, or Couples who blamed COVID pandemic for relationship troubles much happier: study Back to video The study highlights the beneficial effects of “blaming the stressor,” in this case, a global health crisis. And while it didn’t completely immunize them against relational strain, the negative effect of the stress was weaker if people blamed COVID, Neff said. Article content Instead, we tend to become much more critical, and much less forgiving of our partners, compared to times of no stress, Neff said.

Source: National Post June 21, 2021 14:37 UTC