Interesting that the analysis here focuses on how *couples* behave in response to each other’s speech. I’d love to see the data to examine, within each couple, which partner does the most work in responding to the other’s bids.
I have learned, & choose to practice, to respond to any random statement from by partner by stopping, looking at them & saying ‘tell me about it’. Because being present & listening is how we show respect. It’s how we cultivate understanding, & understanding is the ground of love.
When I ask for my partner’s attention when I want to say something they will stop, look at me & sit rigidly as if gritting their teeth to perform an unpleasant but necessary task. If I’m lucky. Mostly it’s a mumble, a grunt, or no response at all.
Maybe I’m boring? (Kidding. I’m not.)
Fun game: guess our genders 😎. Bonus points for identifying which of us is #ActuallyAutistic
#Relationships #Respect #Listening #gender #neurodivergence
https://www.theguardian.com/wellness/2025/dec/04/bird-theory-relationship?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other