How to Handle Conflict in Your Relationship
6 min read
Disagreement between partners is normal — how you resolve it shapes the future of the relationship.
No marriage is free of conflict. Differences in viewpoints, expectations and tastes are natural. What matters is how you manage them.
### The four horsemen
Based on Dr. John Gottman's research, four destructive behaviors are: criticism, contempt, defensiveness and stonewalling.
### Constructive strategies
1. Focus on the issue, not the person
2. Practice active listening
3. Take short breaks mid-argument
4. Ask a family counselor for help when you feel stuck