CRC Intimacy & Connection Building Flashcards

A CRC working with a couple on emotional intimacy would encourage which practice?

Answer: Regular sharing of inner emotional experiences, fears, and hopes without judgment

Emotional intimacy deepens through regular, vulnerable sharing of inner experiences, which builds mutual understanding and closeness.

The 'Michelangelo phenomenon' in relationship science refers to:

Answer: Partners sculpting each other toward their ideal selves through behavioral affirmation

The Michelangelo phenomenon describes how partners shape each other toward their ideal selves through consistent affirmation of ideal traits.

Research by Gottman found that the 'magic ratio' for healthy relationships is approximately:

Answer: 5:1 positive to negative interactions

Gottman's research found that stable, happy relationships maintain roughly a 5:1 ratio of positive to negative interactions.

A coach helping a couple rebuild connection after emotional distance would be LEAST likely to suggest:

Answer: Rehashing every past grievance in detail

Repeatedly rehashing old grievances tends to deepen disconnection rather than rebuild intimacy.

The 'capstone' vs. 'cornerstone' model of relationship formation refers to:

Answer: Whether couples prioritize personal achievement before marriage (capstone) or build it together (cornerstone)

The capstone model (achieving stability before committing) contrasts with the cornerstone model (building life together from the start), reflecting cultural shifts in relationship formation.

Which coaching exercise specifically helps partners practice deep listening and empathy by speaking and reflecting in turns?

Answer: The Imago Dialogue

The Imago Dialogue, developed by Harville Hendrix, uses structured mirroring, validation, and empathy to deepen connection between partners.