Overcoming Resentment: A Barrier to Connection and Healing (Episode #58)

Overcoming Resentment:

A Barrier to Connection and Healing  

In this episode of the Human Intimacy Podcast, hosts Dr. Kevin Skinner and MaryAnn Michaelis dive into the profound impact of resentment in relationships, particularly in the context of betrayal, trust, and healing. They explore how resentment stems from unmet expectations, unresolved hurts, and past wounds, and how it influences behavior and intimacy. Dr. Skinner and MaryAnn discuss the importance of self-reflection, emotional regulation, and honest communication in addressing resentment constructively. They also emphasize the role of attachment wounds in triggering resentment and how awareness of these wounds can help individuals process their emotions more effectively.  

The episode concludes with practical steps for recognizing and working through resentment, including self-reflection exercises, journaling, body awareness techniques, and healthy communication strategies. The hosts also announce a special discount for accessing the Human Intimacy Conference recordings, providing an opportunity to learn from top experts in the field.  

Key Resources Discussed:  
1. 12-Step Support Groups (Step 10) – A daily practice for recognizing and addressing fear, anger, disappointment, and resentment.  
2. Self-Reflection Questions for Processing Resentment: 
   - Do I find myself feeling angry, upset, or irritated toward someone?  
   - What specific event or experience triggered this resentment?  
   - What belief or core wound is attached to this resentment?  
   - Have I felt this way before in past relationships or childhood?  
   - How can I communicate my feelings in a way that fosters healing rather than blame?  
3. EMDR Emotional Float-Back Technique – A guided method to trace current emotional reactions to earlier life experiences, identifying core wounds.  
4. Dr. Sue Johnson's Attachment Theory – Understanding how unmet attachment needs create resentment and relational disconnection.  
5. Pia Mellody’s Work on Trauma & Codependency – Exploring how resentment can keep individuals stuck in a victim mindset and how to shift to an empowered stance.  
6. Healthy Communication Strategies – Differentiating between blame-driven resentment and honest, healing dialogue to create deeper understanding and emotional safety.  
8. Human Intimacy Conference Recordings —Access to expert-led sessions on intimacy, betrayal healing, and relational repair, available at humanintimacy.com with the discount code: HIConference50 for 50% off—Available April 1st, 2025

This episode provides valuable insights and actionable tools to help listeners acknowledge, process, and communicate their resentment in a way that fosters growth and deeper intimacy.