If someone goes silent after you have asked them not to do so, there could be various reasons behind their behavior. Here are some possible explanations:
Misunderstanding: The person may have misunderstood your request or intentions. They might think that going silent is their way of respecting your boundaries or giving you space, even though you asked them not to. Communication issues can sometimes lead to misunderstandings like this.
Emotional overwhelm: The person might be dealing with strong emotions or difficult feelings that make it challenging for them to respond immediately. They might need time to process their thoughts and feelings before continuing the conversation.
Avoidance: Going silent could be a form of avoidance. The person might be uncomfortable or unwilling to address the issue or topic, so they choose to withdraw from the conversation instead of facing it directly.
Fear of confrontation: Some individuals avoid further discussions out of fear of confrontation or conflict. They might not want to say something that could escalate the situation or make things worse.
Respect for your request: While you asked them not to go silent, they might be trying to respect your wishes in their own way. They might think that remaining quiet is better than saying something that could potentially upset you or violate your boundaries.
Processing time: Some people need more time to think and respond. They might be introspective individuals who prefer to gather their thoughts before expressing themselves.
External factors: It's possible that external factors in their life are affecting their ability to engage in the conversation. They could be busy, preoccupied with other concerns, or facing personal challenges.
Emotional withdrawal: In some cases, going silent could indicate emotional withdrawal or disengagement from the relationship or conversation. This might be a sign of deeper underlying issues that need to be addressed.
It's essential to communicate openly and honestly with the person about how their silence makes you feel. Express your concerns, give them the opportunity to explain their behavior, and try to understand their perspective. This communication can help clarify misunderstandings and facilitate a more constructive conversation. However, remember that you cannot control the actions of others, and sometimes people need space or time to process things in their own way.