Sometimes the fate of a relationship is revealed not by conversation, but by a glance, gesture, or reaction in a conflict. Psychologist and kineticist Valentina Orli explained which nonverbal signs help to understand whether a couple has potential — or if the union is based on illusions.
Understanding whether a relationship has a future can be difficult: feelings may contradict logic, and hope may clash with facts. However, body language, facial expressions, and ways of interaction often speak louder than words. Specialists advise paying attention to these signals first.
Nonverbal Markers of Healthy and Problematic Relationships
1. Partner's Facial Expressions
The face is one of the most honest indicators of emotional state. Open expressions, smiles, and lively facial movements indicate comfort and safety in the couple. In contrast, regular gloominess, contempt, or a "stone face" may indicate a hidden conflict. According to the expert, particularly destructive are the facial patterns of contempt, constant criticism, defensiveness, and emotional closure.
2. Body Language
Relaxed postures and open gestures are signs of trust. If a partner frequently crosses their arms, legs, shrinks, or tucks their head into their shoulders, it may signal internal tension and a sense of insecurity. Such a state often arises in relationships where psychological pressure is present.
3. Tactile Contact
Touch, hugs, and spontaneous physical closeness strengthen emotional bonds and increase the couple's resilience. A lack of tactile interaction may indicate distance, distrust, or past traumas that cause a person to avoid contact. This does not always mean coldness, but almost always indicates a problem that requires attention.
4. Ability to Hear Each Other
Dialogue in a couple is not only about the ability to speak but also about the capacity to be heard. If one partner regularly ignores the words of the other or listens formally without emotional engagement, this is a worrying sign. Stable relationships are built on a shared language of values and mutual respect.
5. Common Plans and Joint Actions
Alignment of goals, having plans, and shared activities enhance the sense of "we." When each person lives exclusively their own life without including their partner in the future, it is difficult to talk about long-term prospects.
6. Behavior in Conflicts
Conflicts are inevitable, but it is the reaction to them that determines the fate of the relationship. If both partners seek compromise, this is a good sign. However, if only one partner concedes and tries, over time they find themselves in a position of constant infringement, which destroys the connection.
7. Honesty and Expressing Feelings
One of the most challenging yet key skills is to be honest, primarily with oneself. The psychologist recommends using "I-messages" to talk about feelings without accusations: through personal experiences and specific actions of the partner. It is important to maintain gratitude and recognition in the dialogue — without them, relationships gradually lose their emotional foundation.
Caring for the union begins with attention to details. When both partners are ready to notice signals, work on themselves, and interact, the likelihood of strong and long-lasting relationships significantly increases.
