Expectations
Children form expectations from their environmental experiences. Some contributors are parents, siblings, friends, teachers, neighbours, religious teachings, heroes, heroines, books, films, television and social networks such as Facebook.
These influences fuel their dreams and fantasies.
Unrealistic hopes and dreams may be carried into adulthood. When not fulfilled a sense of let down and unfairness begins to form.
When a couple decides to commit to each other, their individual expectations are seldom voiced but then often feel thwarted and undermined. If these emotions are not discussed, heard and respected the individual within the couple experiences rejection and loneliness.
With the help of a therapist, these frustrations and hurts can be looked at in safety, creating a space to accept the disappointment and build on the newly forming intimacy between the couple.
The expectations become more realistic and begin to be possible.
Clare Ireland