Marriage Conflict Resolution in Marriage

Question 1

What is the 'softened startup' technique in marital conflict resolution?

Accepted Answer

Beginning a difficult conversation with gentle, non-blaming language

Answer

Avoiding conflict by changing the subject

Answer

Starting with positive memories before raising a criticism

Answer

Using humor to defuse tension immediately

Question 2

According to marriage researcher John Gottman, what ratio of positive to negative interactions predicts a stable marriage?

Accepted Answer

5:1

Answer

3:1

Answer

7:1

Answer

10:1

Question 3

What does 'stonewalling' mean in the context of marital conflict?

Accepted Answer

Withdrawing from a conversation and refusing to engage

Answer

Building emotional walls to protect oneself during arguments

Answer

Using silence as a deliberate manipulation tactic

Answer

Physically leaving the room during an argument

Question 4

Which communication technique involves paraphrasing what your partner said to confirm you understood them correctly?

Accepted Answer

Reflective listening

Answer

Validation

Answer

Mirroring

Answer

Active listening

Question 5

What is the purpose of a 'time-out' during a marital conflict?

Accepted Answer

A structured pause to allow both partners to calm down before continuing

Answer

Taking a temporary break from the relationship

Answer

Giving your partner the silent treatment

Answer

Consulting a therapist mid-argument

Question 6

How does 'criticism' differ from a 'complaint' in Gottman's Four Horsemen framework?

Accepted Answer

Criticism attacks a partner's character, while a complaint addresses a specific behavior

Answer

Criticism is more specific, while a complaint is vague

Answer

A complaint is more hurtful than criticism

Answer

Criticism involves raised voices, while a complaint does not

Question 7

Which approach to conflict is most effective for long-term marital health?

Accepted Answer

Addressing issues directly while showing mutual respect

Answer

Avoiding conflict entirely to maintain peace

Answer

Letting one partner win each argument to resolve it quickly

Answer

Keeping all disagreements private and never discussing them