This doesn’t happen just in romantic relationships, but also in families.

My mother did this to me, gave me the silent treatment for a year. It was unbelievably painful. Ultimately I left home and am now no contact with her. Super sad.

Also, something about this “freezing” tactic almost makes it impossible for the victim to actually speak up and initiate conflict or discussion as to why this has even happened.

I felt like I couldn’t say anything to my mother. It was really strange. Reminds me of the Pink Floyd song “Keep Talking”.

“ There’s a silence surrounding me
I can’t seem to think straight
I sit in the corner
And no one can bother me
I think I should speak now (why won’t you talk to me?)
I can’t seem to speak now (you never talk to me)
My words won’t come out right (what are you thinking?)
I feel like I’m drowning (what are you feeling?)
I’m feeling weak now (why won’t you talk to me?)
But I can’t show my weakness (you never talk to me)
I sometimes wonder (what are you thinking?)
Where do we go from here (what are you feeling?)”