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

A softened startup means raising a concern without blame or criticism, typically using 'I feel' statements rather than 'you' accusations.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

5:1

Answer

Gottman's research found that stable marriages maintain at least 5 positive interactions for every 1 negative interaction, known as the 'magic ratio.'

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Withdrawing from a conversation and refusing to engage

Answer

Stonewalling is when one partner shuts down and withdraws from communication entirely, refusing to respond or engage in the conversation.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Reflective listening

Answer

Reflective listening means summarizing or paraphrasing your partner's words back to them to confirm you understood their message accurately.

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

A time-out is an agreed-upon pause during heated conflict that allows both partners to calm down physiologically before resuming discussion.

Marriage Practice Test

Marriage Practice Test

Marriage Conflict Resolution in Marriage