What can be a consequence of consistently engaging in avoidance during conflicts?

Consistently engaging in avoidance during conflicts can lead to the escalation of the conflict. Avoidance, which is a strategy where individuals evade addressing the issues at hand, does not resolve the underlying problems, but rather allows them to fester over time. When conflicts are avoided, the unresolved emotions and issues can build up, leading to greater tension and misunderstandings. This accumulation often results in heightened emotions and more significant disputes when they eventually arise.

Furthermore, avoidance can cause feelings of resentment and frustration among the parties involved. When issues are not communicated and addressed, there is a risk of misinterpretations and assumptions, further complicating the situation. Consequently, rather than resolving conflicts and strengthening relationships, avoidance can lead to a cycle of increasing conflict and deterioration of communication, making it harder to reach a constructive resolution in the future.