PH
Five studies found an interesting relationship effect involving negative disclosures.
People responded less supportively to the same negative disclosure when they believed the person making it was someone who frequently E×ρréššed negativity.
So two people can make essentially the same complaint and receive different reactions because of their established communication patterns.
This doesn't mean someone should hide legitimate problems.
It shows that the history surrounding a conversation can influence how a partner interprets what's being said.
© Journal of Personality and Social Psychology