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Dilemma: Why does my husband like to provoke me?

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I feel like my husband does things to deliberately annoy and hurt me. He knowingly gives me the wrong travel dates whenever he has to travel out of town for work, forms relationships with people whom I consider my enemies, and basically does the opposite of what I ask of him. What should I do?

When a marriage partner deliberately does things to annoy the other, it can be challenging and emotionally draining. There must be some underlying issues that should be addressed. Instead of bringing them to the table, he opts to act like this, which is wrong. You must be wise and courageous to address this. Deliberate acts and silent suffering can't resolve anything unless both of you work together to resolve the situation. Talk to your partner about how his actions are affecting you. Categorically use "I" statements to express your feelings without blaming or accusing him. Identify and reflect on deeper issues or unmet needs that are causing your husband to behave this way. Is it a lack of attention, are you disrespectful, do you meet his conjugal rights, does he feel unheard, or something else?