Stonewalling is a turning away; a refusal to communicate or cooperate. Such behaviour can occur in any relationship.  Body language may indicate and reinforce this by avoiding contact and engagement with the other party. 

Stonewalling is a defense-mechanism that is activated when someone feels threatened or unsure as to how to respond to conflict in a relationship. 

People who use stonewalling may do so because they fear a negative negative outcome or as a learned behavior pattern that they are repeating from childhood.

So, if you are feeling flooded and stonewalling, take a break using whatever signal, word, or phrase you and your partner have decided upon.  Walk away and soothe yourself.  

But then do return to your partner afterwards, make a repair and reengage.

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