It’s normal for partners to have different viewpoints on things in relationships. Maybe your political views don’t line up. You might come from different backgrounds. Even small things like one of you liking certain foods and the other disliking them can spark healthy, friendly, and effective debate. 

However, one of the biggest debate subjects has been the COVID-19 vaccine over the last year. 

The vaccine has been administered to millions of people in the U.S. With that being said, millions have opted not to take it. At the height of vaccine distribution, those differing opinions caused a lot of contention throughout the country. They might have even caused contention in your relationship that still lingers today. 

While we’re starting to enter a post-pandemic society, most people’s opinions about the vaccine are still incredibly strong. So, what can you do when you disagree with your partner about the COVID vaccine, and how can you ensure your relationship continues to move forward? 

Understand Your True Emotions

For many people, their feelings about the COVID vaccine come from a place of emotion. You might be scared to get it because there hasn’t been enough research. You might be frustrated with people who don’t want it because someone close to you died from the virus. 

If you disagree with your partner about the vaccine, take the time to think about why. 

Then, remember you’re on the same team. 

When you have an emotional attachment to your vaccine opinion, your partner will have an easier time understanding where you’re coming from. Once you better understand those emotions, you can explain them and work together to find common ground. You don’t necessarily have to agree, but you can respect one another’s emotions and feelings rather than just arguing in circles. 

Have the Conversation

Speaking of explaining things, don’t wait. 

No one likes confrontation, especially in a relationship. However, disagreements happen, and trying to hide your true feelings or opinions will make things worse. You don’t want to go through your relationship biting your tongue about something important to you. 

Emotions will always surface, no matter how much you try to force them down. Unfortunately, the longer you let them linger, the more intense they can become. 

So, while conflicts and disagreements are never easy, they can actually be healing for your relationship and allow you both to move forward. Knowing that you’re both able to be vulnerable and open can also encourage healthy communication when it comes to just about any subject. 

Be Open to Learning

You might have a very strong opinion on the vaccine. That doesn’t mean you know everything about it. Even if your opinion doesn’t change, give your partner the respect of listening to their viewpoint. You might learn something you didn’t know before, which can help you better understand where your partner is coming from and why they feel so strongly.

It’s okay to expect the same kind of respect in return. Emotions aside, be willing to back up your vaccine opinion with facts, figures, and personal anecdotes. Don’t try to argue for the sake of winning. Again, you’re on the same team. Instead, be willing to inform your partner and be willing to learn from them in return. When you do disagree, stay on the topic at hand rather than bringing up other things that could fuel your argument and contribute to hurt feelings.

The COVID vaccine is a hot topic of conversation, but it doesn’t need to cause discord in your relationship. Use these tips to navigate vaccine disagreements effectively, and feel free to contact me for couples therapy if you’re still struggling.